Okeechobee County, FL – A devastating act of violence has left a Florida community grieving after a double homicide on Sunday, July 27, claimed the lives of Debbie Evans and Purvin Evans, a beloved couple from the area. The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on Wednesday that the shooter was Paul Scott Wier, a 51-year-old man from Okeechobee, who was also killed during a gunfire exchange with deputies.
The Incident
Deputies were dispatched to the 2800 block of SE 47th Terrace after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and sightings of a man dressed in black fleeing the area with a rifle. Upon arrival, deputies found Debbie and Purvin Evans dead on their front porch, having suffered fatal gunshot wounds.
According to the sheriff’s office, officers encountered the suspect, Paul Scott Wier, nearby and ordered him repeatedly to drop his weapon. Wier refused to comply, instead opening fire on the deputies. The deputies returned fire, striking Wier. He was taken to HCA Lawnwood Medical Center in Fort Pierce, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Victims: Debbie and Purvin Evans
Family members identified the victims as Debbie Evans and Purvin Evans, a loving couple known throughout the Okeechobee community for their generosity, warmth, and enduring commitment to one another. They were described as kind neighbors and devoted family members who were simply enjoying a peaceful day on their porch when their lives were tragically cut short.
“This is a devastating loss,” one family member shared. “They were always there for others, and now we’re left trying to understand why this happened.”
The Suspect: Paul Scott Wier
Authorities have identified the shooter as Paul Scott Wier, who had a known history of criminal offenses and mental health struggles. In 2004, Wier was arrested in Palm Beach County for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and grand theft, though he was acquitted by reason of insanity in that case.
He also had a prior conviction for heroin possession and served time in prison. While the motive behind Sunday’s double homicide remains unclear, investigators believe Wier acted alone and are working to determine what led him to commit such a senseless and violent act.
Deputies on Administrative Leave
Per standard law enforcement protocol, the deputies involved in the exchange of gunfire with Wier have been placed on administrative leave pending the results of the ongoing investigation.
Sheriff Noel E. Stephen offered his condolences and expressed support for the officers who responded to the violent situation:
“This was a shocking and senseless act that has left families grieving and our community shaken. Our deputies responded with professionalism and courage under fire. We remain focused on supporting the victims’ families and bringing clarity to this investigation.”
Community in Mourning
Neighbors and friends have placed flowers, notes, and candles at the Evans’ home, forming a makeshift memorial. The outpouring of support has been tremendous, as locals come to terms with the sudden and violent loss of two well-known community members.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by family to help with funeral expenses and to honor the legacy of the couple.
Summary
- Victims: Debbie Evans and Purvin Evans
- Suspect: Paul Scott Wier, 51, deceased following shootout with deputies
- Location: 2800 block of SE 47th Terrace, Okeechobee County, FL
- Incident Date: Sunday, July 27, 2025
- Investigation Status: Ongoing; motive remains unclear
- Law Enforcement Response: Deputies fired upon by suspect; Wier fatally injured in return fire
As the investigation continues, the Evans family and the wider community seek not only answers but also healing. The memory of Debbie and Purvin Evans will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them, even as their loved ones call for justice and peace in the wake of unimaginable loss.
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