Melbourne Shooting Leaves One Dead, Suspect Arrested After Dramatic Bus Chase

In a tragic turn of events on Tuesday afternoon, a fatal shooting in Melbourne led to school lockdowns and the arrest of a 21-year-old suspect. The incident, which occurred shortly after noon, caused panic in the community as Stone Magnet Middle School and University Park Elementary School went into immediate lockdown. The lockdowns were initiated after a school resource officer heard gunfire in the vicinity, raising alarms and prompting swift action from law enforcement.

Witnesses reported chaotic scenes as people ran for safety and cars sped away from the area. The Melbourne Police Department quickly responded and traced the source of the gunfire to Tip Top Mini Mart on Monroe Street. Upon arrival, officers found the lifeless body of 27-year-old Craig Dewberry, who had been fatally shot. Dewberry was pronounced dead at the scene, marking the latest in a series of violent crimes that have shaken the community.

As the investigation unfolded, police identified 21-year-old Malachi Dante Bell as the primary suspect in the shooting. Authorities discovered that Bell was attempting to flee to South Florida, boarding a Greyhound Bus in an effort to escape capture. However, Melbourne police acted swiftly, coordinating with other agencies to locate Bell. They successfully apprehended him at a bus station around 6:30 p.m. on the same day, bringing a swift end to the manhunt.

Bell is now facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder and robbery with a firearm. These serious charges reflect the gravity of the crime and the impact it has had on the Melbourne community. As the investigation continues, police are working to gather more information about the incident, including the motives behind the shooting and any potential connections between Bell and the victim.

The Melbourne Police Department has assured the public that they are committed to uncovering the full story behind this tragic event. They are urging anyone with additional information to come forward, as they piece together the events that led to the death of Craig Dewberry. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the need for continued vigilance and community cooperation in the fight against violent crime.

In the wake of the shooting, school officials have praised the quick response of the school resource officer and local law enforcement. The lockdown measures ensured the safety of students and staff during the critical moments following the gunfire. As the community grapples with the shock of this violent act, there is a collective hope for justice and a call for peace in the streets of Melbourne.