Spring break in Daytona Beach has been a rite of passage for countless college students over the years. Its beaches have the perfect combination of sun and sand, making the Florida town the perfect spot for parties and a much-needed getaway from studies.
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But over the weekend, the popular destination became anything but relaxing. Five different shootings took place in the area in only three days.
Spring Break Shootings Left a Police Officer Injured
This rash of gun violence left one police officer injured and a suspect in critical condition, according to the Daily Mail.
In a video of one incident, people trying to enjoy their spring break are seen running down Daytona Beach as officers from several jurisdictions move across the sand.
Despite the chaos, it's important to note that none of the shootings over the weekend took place on the beach itself. Two occurred beachside, according to Volusia Sheriff's Office officials.
A shot was fired during a fight at the Joint Bar on Seabreeze. No injuries were reported, according to Daytona Beach Police.
An hour after that incident, someone was shot in front of a Crunch Fitness.
According to police, the victims of these shootings are expected to recover.
The Officer Is in Critical Condition
On March 15, Port Orange Police responded to a call of a shooting off Country Lane. They found suspect Tood Anthony Martin, who then fled in a vehicle.
South Daytona Beach police joined the chase. Then the 31-year-old Martin crashed his vehicle on the northbound I-95. He then allegedly fired at officers. He struck South Daytona Beach Police Officer Jake Fessenden twice.
Martin then fled on foot and tried to steal a police vehicle. He fled the car several minutes after it caught fire. Martin is now being treated for a gunshot wound and severe burns. He's in critical condition, according to reports.
Officer Fessenden underwent surgery for his injuries. He is expected to survive.
South Daytona Beach Police Department Deputy Chief Tim Morgan said, "God was on his side today. You know he's hit twice, two critical areas, but we're being told he's in stable condition, and he's going to be fine."
Investigators are looking to see if this rash of gun violence is related to spring break.
One resident said these incidents create a bad look for Daytona Beach, adding, "There was a poor [man] that's never been to Florida in the elevator last night, and he was like, 'This is our first time ever in Florida. Should we pack up and leave?'"
