Craig Dewberry Obituary, Death – Following a shooting on Tuesday afternoon that resulted in one death and led to lockdowns at several Brevard County schools, the Melbourne Police Department has apprehended a 21-year-old suspect. The incident unfolded just after noon, prompting immediate lockdowns at Stone Magnet Middle School and University Park Elementary School. These measures were taken after a school resource officer heard gunfire nearby.
Witnesses reported seeing people fleeing the scene and vehicles speeding away, which helped law enforcement in their initial response. The source of the gunfire was traced to Tip Top Mini Mart on Monroe Street. Upon arriving at the location, police discovered the body of 27-year-old Craig Dewberry, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
As the investigation progressed, 21-year-old Malachi Dante Bell emerged as a suspect. Authorities soon learned that Bell was trying to escape to South Florida, traveling aboard a Greyhound Bus. Melbourne police managed to locate and arrest Bell at a bus station around 6:30 p.m. on the same day.
Bell now faces charges including first-degree murder and robbery with a firearm. The Melbourne Police Department continues to investigate the incident and gather more information.