Sulliman Godfrey Obituary, Death – 17-Year-Old Killed in Indian River County Shooting

Sulliman Godfrey, 17, died after being shot late Friday night, October 2, 2026, near Garcia’s Boat Ramp in Indian River County, Florida. His death has left his family, friends and members of the local community mourning the loss of a teenager whose life ended suddenly.

According to the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called at approximately 11:24 p.m. following reports that a juvenile had been shot near the boat ramp in the 3700 block of County Road 512, close to the Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area.

Deputies found Godfrey at the scene and immediately began lifesaving measures while waiting for Indian River County Fire Rescue. He was taken to Sebastian River Medical Center and later flown to Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne, where he died from his injuries.

Information provided in connection with the investigation indicates that a party that had previously been broken up may have relocated to the boat ramp area. An altercation reportedly developed after people gathered there. Witness accounts indicate that Godfrey may have been attempting to intervene and stop the fight when he was shot.

Authorities have not publicly confirmed the complete sequence of events surrounding the shooting. Investigators have also not released information identifying a suspect, explaining the circumstances that led to the gunfire or announcing any charges.

The sheriff’s office described the shooting as an isolated incident and said there was no known threat to the broader public. Lieutenant Kevin Jaworski said the investigation remains active as detectives work to establish exactly what happened.

Godfrey was initially identified as a senior at Sebastian River High School. The Indian River School District later clarified that he had recently withdrawn from the school to pursue homeschooling and was not enrolled in the district when the shooting occurred.

District spokeswoman Kyra Schafte expressed condolences to Godfrey’s family and friends and to members of the Sebastian River High School community affected by his death. The district said it was communicating with the sheriff’s office while working to support students, staff, families and others impacted by the tragedy.

A school dance had been scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday at Sebastian River High School, according to the information provided.

The death of the 17-year-old has left loved ones facing the sudden loss of a young life. While investigators continue working to determine what led to the shooting, authorities have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office.

The circumstances surrounding Sulliman Godfrey’s death remain under investigation, and additional information may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence and determining whether anyone will face charges.

For those who knew Godfrey, his death represents the loss of a teenager with years of life ahead of him. His family, friends and community are now left to remember him while awaiting answers about the events that ended his life.