PORT ST. JOHN, Fla. — Authorities Release Details in Fatal Shooting, Community Grieves 28-Year-Old Victim

PORT ST. JOHN, Fla. — Authorities Release Details in Fatal Shooting, Community Grieves 28-Year-Old Victim

The shores of the Space Coast were shaken today as Brevard County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) confirmed new, painful details about a fatal shooting that unfolded earlier Sunday in the Port St. John community. A 23-year-old man, Tyjah Bellinger of Port St. John, has been arrested and charged with first-degree premeditated murder in the shooting death of his girlfriend, 28-year-old Lendzi Lakeman.

The Incident

According to a news release from BCSO, deputies were dispatched to the 7000-block of Carlow Avenue in Port St. John at approximately 12:15 p.m. Sunday following multiple emergency calls about shots fired in the neighborhood.

When they arrived, they found Lakeman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, she was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators soon determined that Tyjah Bellinger — identified as Lakeman’s boyfriend — was responsible for the shooting. He was later located at a residence on Dallas Avenue in Port St. John and taken into custody without incident.

An arrest warrant was issued charging him with first‐degree murder; he is currently being held in the Brevard County Jail without bond.

The Victim and the Community’s Grief

For the family and friends of Lendzi Lakeman, this is a heartbreaking and incomprehensible loss. She was a daughter, a partner, a friend — someone whose life mattered deeply and whose sudden death echoes with shock and sorrow through the Port St. John community.

Neighbors describe the block of Carlow Avenue as ordinarily quiet and safe; the violence of Sunday afternoon has shaken them deeply. Many say the tragedy raises questions about how quickly life can change, and how vulnerable loved ones can be in their own homes.

Investigation Underway

The homicide unit and crime‐scene personnel from BCSO remain engaged in an ongoing investigation, processing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working to reconstruct the events that led to Lakeman’s death.

Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact Agent Kevin Morris of the Homicide Unit at (321) 633-8413.

Reflections and Response

Sheriff Wayne Ivey expressed gratitude for the swift work of deputies who located and arrested Bellinger. He also extended condolences to Lakeman’s family, acknowledging the pain of a loss so sudden and painful.

While the arrest may bring a measure of accountability, for those who knew Lendzi the wound remains raw. Her absence is felt in every corner of her life — in shared laughter, in plans left unfinished, in the quiet moments where her presence once was.

A Life Remembered

Although details about Lakeman’s life and passions are still emerging, those who knew her describe her as someone who valued connection, kindness, and community. Her death serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of honoring those we hold dear — not only in life, but in the memories we carry forward.

The Port St. John community now stands with her loved ones in sorrow, pledging support, love, and remembrance. As the investigation continues, the hope remains that — in time — healing will begin and Lendzi’s legacy will be honored in the way she deserves.