State Attorney seeking death penalty in homicide case against Ocala Paddock Mall shooting suspect

William (Bill) Gladson, State Attorney
Fifth Judicial Circuit of Florida
Serving Marion, Lake, Citrus, Sumter, Hernando counties

Ocala, Florida - On February 2, 2024, State Attorney Bill Gladson announced the filing of a death penalty notice in the case against 39 year-old Albert J. Shell, Jr. of Ocala, who was indicted by a grand jury the previous week. The indictiment was in regard to a shooting that occurred at the Paddock Mall in Ocala on December 23, 2023. The shooting resulted in the death of 40 year-old David Nathaniel Barron, and a woman receiving a gunshot wound to her leg.

Charges against Shell include premeditated first-degree murder with a firearm, two counts of attempted second-degree murder with a firearm, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

"The Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office has filed a notice that it intends to seek the death penalty," said Gladson in a Feb. 2, 2024 press release. "The decision is reflective of the gravity of the alleged offenses and the impact on the victims and their families. The State Attorney's Office acknowledges the sensitivity of this matter and the impact it has on the community. Our commitment to ensuring justice and holding criminals accountable for their actions remains unwavering. As legal proceedings unfold, our office asks for respect for the legal process and the privacy of those involved. We will continue to work diligently to bring this case to a just resolution."

The shooting occurred in the commons area of the Paddock Mall, about 3:40 p.m., two days before Christmas. The suspect - later identified as Shell - fled on foot. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest, and he was placed under arrest, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, on January 8, 2024. Shell is incarcerated at the Marion County Jail in Ocala, with his bond set at none.