The tragic death of Lawrence Evans has shaken the community of Palatka, Florida. On January 5, 2026, the Palatka Police Department announced that 17-year-old Lawrence Evans had succumbed to injuries from a gunshot wound.
The incident occurred on the evening of Saturday, January 3, 2026, when officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 2500 block of West Main Street, in the Lemon Heights neighborhood.
Upon arrival, officers found Lawrence suffering from a gunshot wound.
He was immediately transported to UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville for treatment, but despite medical efforts, he passed away around 12:30 a.m. on January 4.
Reports from the scene and local sources indicate he was shot at least once, possibly in the chest, though exact details of the wound have not been officially confirmed by authorities.
At the scene, 17-year-old Montravien Oxendine, also from Palatka, was present with Evans. Police determined Oxendine was responsible for the shooting and arrested him shortly afterward.
He faces charges of carrying a concealed weapon and tampering with evidence. Oxendine is currently being held at the Juvenile Detention Center in Volusia County as the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Alisha Burger at 386-937-1472.
Lawrence Evans was a beloved junior at Palatka Jr-Sr High School, set to graduate in 2027.
Standing at 5’8″, he wore jersey #30 as a running back (RB) and defensive back (DB) on the Palatka Varsity Football team, where he was known for his athleticism and team spirit.
He also competed in track and field and weightlifting, showcasing his dedication and versatility as a student-athlete.
Beyond sports, Lawrence excelled academically and was remembered by teachers, friends, and family for his bright smile, kind soul, and infectious positivity.
Born in September 2008 to his mother, Ashley Floyd, Lawrence was her firstborn child and a source of immense pride.
He had expressed ambitions of joining the Marines after high school, showing his drive and sense of purpose.
The school released a heartfelt statement expressing profound sorrow:
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Lawrence Evans, a 17-year-old student whose life was taken far too soon. He will be remembered for his brilliant smile and the light it brought to those around him, and our deepest condolences are with his family, friends, and all who loved him during this incredibly difficult time.”
Via Facebook
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Tributes have poured in from those who knew him, showing how deeply he touched many lives
Teacher Alicia Trunk shared,
“He was an amazing kid. I loved his sweet spirit in my class and the endless smirk he shared with many! I will miss his hugs and fist bumps. My heart is broken for his family, friends and community. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten! RIP.”
Via Facebook
Coach Bee Walt reflected on a lighthearted memory:
“Lawrence was such a great kid with a genuinely kind soul. I’ll never forget the day he made me feel old at practice when I made an LL Cool J reference and he admitted he had no idea who I was talking about. Moments like that always made me smile. This one really hurts. No coach ever wants to hear news like this, and it’s incredibly sad. Prayers for his family and everyone who loved him.”
Via Facebook
His mother, Ashley Floyd, posted a moving message amid the overwhelming support:
“Good morning, first and foremost I want to say Thank You for the Outpouring of Love and Encouragement. It is a very overwhelming and emotional time right now and responding to everyone is difficult. It’s hard to have visitors or accept calls during a time of grief especially when people ask detective questions or grieve harder than you… I lost my son my first successful birth child. A 17yr old with so much potential 1yr left in high school. He played football ran track, weightlifting my future marine. I just need time to think, process and prepare for my final farewell to my baby.”
Via Facebook
The loss of Lawrence Evans has left a void in Palatka, particularly among his teammates, classmates, and loved ones who saw his potential cut short.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the impact of gun violence on young lives.
As the investigation continues, the community rallies around his family in grief and remembrance of a promising young man whose light will not be forgotten.
