DeLeon Springs, FL – A 78-year-old man has been taken into custody after allegedly shooting and killing his neighbor during a heated property dispute. The incident, which occurred during a disagreement over tree trimming, has left a community in shock and a family in mourning.
Edward Druzolowski, a resident of DeLeon Springs, is accused of shooting his 42-year-old neighbor, Brian Ford, during a dispute over tree trimming on Sunday. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office has since released body cam footage of Druzolowski’s arrest.
According to the victim’s mother, Linda Ford, her son was trimming trees on her property when he was shot and killed in front of his 8-year-old son. She recounted the horrifying moment, stating that her grandson was screaming that his father had been shot. Linda Ford, who was in her carport at the time of the incident, heard a loud noise and then her grandson’s screams.
Druzolowski, who has no prior criminal history, let his court-appointed public defender argue his case for bond. However, Assistant State Attorney Dustin Haven argued against it, stating that Druzolowski admitted that the victim was unarmed and had made no threats.
The sheriff’s office reports that Druzolowski confronted Ford, who was trimming trees at the fence line, and ordered him off what he claimed was his property. When Ford didn’t leave, Druzolowski allegedly shot him. Linda Ford maintains that her son was working on her property, not Druzolowski’s.
The victim’s mother also claims that Druzolowski pointed the gun at her and her grandson after shooting Ford. Despite the traumatic event, Linda Ford is trying to stay strong for her grandchildren, stating that her son had come over for the weekend to celebrate a birthday and help with yard work.
Druzolowski is currently being held without bond, facing a second-degree murder charge in the death of Brian Ford. The incident, which has left a family grieving and a community in shock, serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neighborly disputes.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. The Volusia Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring justice is served and providing support to the community during this difficult time.