MIDDLEBURG, Fla. — A Clay County community is in mourning and disbelief after a tragic shooting unfolded in the early morning hours of Monday, leaving two parents dead and their 14-year-old son in custody. Authorities say Trevor Lee, a teenager from Middleburg, is facing two counts of second-degree murder after allegedly fatally shooting his parents, 44-year-old David Lee and 45-year-old Brandi Smith, following a domestic argument.
Incident Timeline and Discovery
According to Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook, the incident began just after midnight on Monday, August 4. A chilling 911 call came in from Trevor Lee himself, stating that he had just killed his parents and was surrendering at a local church.
Deputies responded quickly to the church, where the teenager peacefully turned himself over to law enforcement. Meanwhile, units were dispatched to the family’s home near Silver Point and County Road 220 in Middleburg, where a horrifying discovery awaited.
Inside the residence, deputies found David Lee and Brandi Smith deceased, both suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Sheriff Cook confirmed that the weapon used in the shooting belonged to the parents and was left at the scene. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office posted about the ongoing investigation on their official Facebook page around 6 a.m., urging community members to remain calm and report any relevant information.
Motive and Preliminary Findings
In a press briefing later that morning, Sheriff Cook stated that the shooting likely stemmed from an escalated argument between the teen and his parents on Sunday night. Although the full details of the argument remain under investigation, authorities have ruled out any ongoing threat to the public.
“We do want to extend our deepest sympathies to the family, the friends, and all of those who are affected by this heartbreaking incident,” said Cook. “This is a tragedy that no community should have to endure.”
Cook also shared that investigators are looking into Trevor Lee’s mental health history and his background at school to better understand what may have led to this violent act. She emphasized the importance of open communication and early intervention in troubled households and teen mental health.
Victims Remembered
David Lee and Brandi Smith were described by neighbors and those who knew them as a hardworking couple devoted to raising their family. Both were involved in the community in quiet yet meaningful ways. News of their tragic deaths has left neighbors stunned.
“This is just devastating,” said one Middleburg resident. “You never think something like this could happen so close to home. They seemed like a normal family. It’s heartbreaking.”
Friends and extended family are expected to organize memorial efforts in the coming days. As of now, funeral arrangements have not been made public.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Support
Trevor Lee is currently being held and has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder. Authorities are continuing to interview family members, neighbors, classmates, and anyone who may have insight into Trevor’s behavior or his relationship with his parents in the weeks leading up to the shooting.
The Sheriff’s Office has asked that anyone with information about Trevor Lee, David Lee, or Brandi Smith contact investigators directly at (904) 264-6512.
Sheriff Cook assured the public there is no further threat to the community, but acknowledged the deep emotional wounds this incident has left behind.
“We are working to get answers,” she said. “But in the meantime, please keep this family—and this community—in your thoughts.”
Mental Health Awareness
This case underscores the critical importance of mental health awareness, especially among adolescents. With increasing pressures, isolation, and emotional volatility, experts are urging families and communities to stay vigilant and engage in proactive conversations with young people about their emotional well-being.
Local organizations are stepping up to offer counseling services and mental health resources for students and families struggling with grief, confusion, or trauma in the wake of this tragedy.
⚖️ What Happens Next
As the legal process unfolds, questions remain about Trevor Lee’s mental state, the accessibility of the firearm, and the long-term consequences of such a violent act committed by a child. Legal experts note that even though Trevor is a juvenile, he could still face adult sentencing depending on how prosecutors move forward.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, violence, or mental health issues, please reach out. The National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988.
Let us all stand together in grief, reflection, and compassion—for the victims, for their son, and for a community that must now begin the difficult process of healing.
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