The community of Gainesville is mourning the tragic death of 24-year-old Brooke Smith, a University of Florida College of Nursing student who was fatally shot Tuesday night at Creeks Edge Condos on Northwest 23rd Boulevard.
According to the Gainesville Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire and arrived at the scene to find Smith suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite emergency medical efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities said the investigation quickly identified a suspect, 31-year-old Xavion Perry, who fled the area shortly after the shooting. Early findings indicate the incident stemmed from a domestic-related situation involving a relationship that was reportedly in the process of ending. Investigators believe the confrontation escalated during an attempt by Smith to distance herself from the suspect, ultimately leading to the fatal shooting.
Police described the case as a targeted incident connected to an interpersonal dispute, though the full sequence of events remains under active investigation. Detectives continue to review evidence from the scene, witness statements, and digital records to establish a detailed timeline.
News of Smith’s death has sent shockwaves through the University of Florida community. The College of Nursing released a statement expressing profound grief, noting that Smith was a dedicated student who was preparing to graduate with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in August. Faculty and classmates described her as compassionate, driven, and deeply committed to a future in healthcare.
Support services and counseling resources have been made available to students and staff as the campus community processes the loss. Many peers have shared memories of Smith as someone who brought kindness and positivity into both academic and personal spaces.
Outside of her studies, Smith also worked at Yoga Pod in Gainesville, where colleagues remembered her as calm, warm, and consistently uplifting. In her honor, the business temporarily closed for mourning.
Law enforcement later pursued the suspect following the shooting. After a police chase in the Daytona Beach area, the suspect fled on foot and entered the water near a pier. A large-scale search operation was launched, and a body was later recovered. The Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the identity as Xavion Perry.
As investigators continue reviewing the case, community organizations have highlighted the importance of recognizing warning signs in abusive relationships and seeking help early. The tragedy has intensified conversations around domestic violence prevention and support resources.
As Gainesville continues to grieve, Brooke Smith is being remembered for her dedication, kindness, and the bright future she was working so hard to build in nursing.