ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA, FL – A local man who worked as a convenience store clerk has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly gunning down an off-duty police officer inside the store where he worked, investigators said.
Eduardo Machado, 24, was arrested Monday following the fatal shooting of Officer David Jewell, a member of the Edgewater Police Department. The incident unfolded around 4 p.m. at the Circle K gas station on Ocean Shore Boulevard, roughly an hour northeast of Orlando.
According to authorities, Machado approached Jewell from behind and opened fire, killing him at close range while he stood at the counter. Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators reportedly captured Machado leaving the store briefly, then returning to retrieve his jacket and shoot Jewell without warning.
The video, described by law enforcement as “unbelievable,” shows Machado firing multiple shots at the unsuspecting Jewell, who had come to the shop with his father-in-law to buy a snack. After Jewell fell to the ground, Machado’s gun appeared to jam before he cleared the weapon and fired several more rounds into the officer, investigators said.
Officials stated that Jewell died at the scene and never had the chance to react to the attack.
Upon his arrest, Machado allegedly confessed to the killing. Investigators learned that the suspect had encountered Jewell several times before at the store and recalled a previous dispute with him, though Machado could not specify details of the disagreement. Authorities said Machado did not know Jewell was a police officer at the time of the shooting.
In interviews with detectives, Machado claimed he was having a “bad day” and had considered shooting Jewell earlier. He told authorities he used a handgun purchased recently and provided no indication of premeditated animosity toward law enforcement, according to official statements.
Family members told investigators that Machado had a diagnosed mental health disorder and had expressed hearing voices in the past. However, they said he was typically quiet and gave no indication of violent tendencies or negative views toward police.
Authorities noted Machado had no previous criminal record. The only prior evidence of contact with law enforcement occurred last year when he was the subject of a complaint for shooting guns at Tomoka State Park. There were no charges in that incident.
Machado remains in custody as the investigation continues. Edgewater and Volusia County officials have not announced plans for a court appearance.