Three months after the fatal shooting of 17‑year‑old Skyler Bradford, her family in Orange County is still pressing law‑enforcement for answers and accountability. The tragedy occurred in July at an apartment complex off Old Cheney Highway, where deputies found Bradford wounded and later pronounced her dead at a hospital.
Investigation remains open
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the case is still under active investigation. When WESH 2 followed up this week, officials reiterated that no new public details could be released because the inquiry is ongoing.
According to the medical examiner’s office, the lack of a final determination prevents the release of additional forensic information at this time.
Arrest of a suspect
Shortly after the shooting, 19‑year‑old Jehovah Mitchell was taken into custody on charges of tampering with or fabricating evidence. The arrest affidavit states that witnesses heard a female screaming and a neighbor knocked on the door. Mitchell allegedly opened the door, claimed his girlfriend had shot herself, and then moved the body down the stairs before discarding the firearm behind his home.
Mitchell’s alleged actions, if proven, would constitute a serious obstruction of justice and could hinder the ability of investigators to piece together what truly happened.
Family’s call for justice
Skyler’s uncle, Norlando Bradford, described the past three months as “horrible” and “a nightmare.” He emphasized that the family does not want the case to be ruled undetermined. “I want justice for Skyler,” he said. “We all want justice for Skyler.”
The family’s pleas underscore the broader concern of many Central Florida residents who seek transparent, timely law‑enforcement responses to violent crimes in their neighborhoods.
Community response
Local community members have expressed sympathy for the Bradford family and have called on officials to keep the public informed as the investigation proceeds. While no further arrests have been announced, the ongoing search for evidence continues to be a priority for the sheriff’s office.
Authorities have asked anyone with additional information about the shooting or the handling of the scene to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
