Sanford Community Grieves the Loss of 22-Year-Old La-Don Ja’Quan Williams Killed in Saturday Afternoon Shooting on 14th Street

Sanford Community Grieves the Loss of 22-Year-Old La-Don Ja’Quan Williams Killed in Saturday Afternoon Shooting on 14th Street

SANFORD, Fla. — A devastating act of gun violence has left the Sanford community heartbroken after a tragic shooting on Saturday afternoon claimed the life of 22-year-old La-Don Ja’Quan Williams and left another person injured. The Sanford Police Department confirmed that the shooting occurred in the area of 14th Street and Mangoustine Avenue shortly after 3:30 p.m., turning an ordinary afternoon into a scene of heartbreak and chaos.

According to authorities, officers were dispatched following multiple reports of gunfire in the neighborhood. When they arrived, they discovered Williams suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on the roadway. Despite the urgent efforts of first responders and medical personnel, he was pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim was found nearby and was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries that were described as non-life-threatening.

The Sanford Police Department immediately launched an investigation, securing the area and gathering evidence as detectives worked to piece together what led to the deadly shooting. Officers canvassed the neighborhood, speaking with witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses in hopes of identifying the suspect or suspects involved.

“Every life lost to violence is one too many,” a Sanford Police spokesperson said in a statement. “Our detectives are working diligently to determine who is responsible for this senseless act and to bring justice to the victim’s family.”

For many in Sanford, the loss of La-Don Ja’Quan Williams is deeply personal. Friends and family describe him as a kind, motivated, and loving young man who had his whole life ahead of him. “He was full of energy, full of dreams,” one friend said tearfully. “He didn’t deserve this. None of us can believe he’s gone.”

Williams’ family, devastated by the tragedy, shared that he was a beloved son, brother, and friend who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. He was known for his warm heart, his loyalty, and his ability to make others smile even on their hardest days. “La-Don was our light,” said a relative. “He loved his family and his friends fiercely. This is a loss we will carry forever.”

Neighbors expressed shock and sorrow over the violence that shattered their quiet community. Many gathered Saturday evening at the scene to light candles, pray, and comfort one another. Plans for a community vigil are already underway to honor Williams’ memory and support his grieving loved ones.

As detectives continue their investigation, police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).

This tragedy marks yet another painful reminder of the toll gun violence takes on communities and families. For Sanford, the loss of La-Don Ja’Quan Williams has left an emptiness that words cannot fill — a young life taken far too soon, leaving behind memories of laughter, kindness, and love that will never be forgotten.

Funeral and memorial arrangements for Williams are expected to be announced in the coming days as the community continues to mourn and search for justice in the wake of this heartbreaking loss.