MIDDLEBURG, FL – Authorities in Clay County are investigating the shocking deaths of a local couple, after their 14-year-old son was arrested early Monday morning on suspicion of fatally shooting his parents at their home in the Fleming Island area.
Trevor Lee, identified by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, faces two counts of second-degree murder in the deaths of his mother, Brandi Smith, 45, and his father, David Lee, 44. The killings, which occurred in the pre-dawn hours at the family’s residence on Silver Point, have left the community reeling and raised questions about what could have led to the violent event.
According to law enforcement, the teen allegedly walked roughly 1.4 miles to Cross Pointe Church on Fleming Island after the shootings, arriving there around 3:48 a.m. Once inside, he called 911, reportedly telling the operator that he had killed his parents and was waiting at the church for authorities.
During the call, Lee reportedly asked the dispatcher to pray for him. The exchange was described in newly released audio, with Lee appearing calm and responsive as the dispatcher reassured him while deputies were en route.
Deputies arrived at the church and took Lee into custody without any resistance. At a news briefing Monday, Sheriff Michelle Cook stated that an initial investigation suggests the shootings followed a domestic dispute inside the home. Cook noted that although the investigation is in its early stages, evidence points to an argument escalating before the violence erupted.
Prior to the incident, the couple had spent Sunday together, reportedly enjoying a night out at the movies. Details regarding what transpired afterward remain under investigation. A family member told police that there were no outward signs of trouble prior to the shootings.
Authorities said they are looking into the teen’s mental health history as part of their ongoing inquiry. No previous arrests or notable incidents had been reported involving Trevor Lee before Monday’s events.
The community has expressed shock and sadness in the aftermath of the slayings. Social media posts from Smith in previous years reflected both challenges and affection in her relationship with her son, adding a layer of complexity to the family’s story.
Officials have released Lee’s mugshot and arrest documents, further outlining how he waited at the church for deputies to arrive following his 911 call. The investigation remains active as detectives gather evidence and interview individuals who may have information about the family dynamics and events leading up to the tragedy.
Lee remains in custody as the case proceeds. Clay County authorities continue to urge anyone with details related to the incident to reach out as they seek answers to the circumstances surrounding the fatal shootings.