STARKE, Fla. — A routine Friday evening pickup at a local daycare turned into a horrific tragedy when a domestic-related dispute erupted in gunfire, leaving one man dead outside Auntie Lili’s Child Care Center.
According to the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the scene near West Washington Street and North Lake Street shortly before 6 p.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a shooting.
When first responders arrived, they discovered a man suffering from critical gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead. His identity has not yet been publicly released, pending notification of family.
The alleged shooter, 34-year-old Mindy Osteen, was taken into custody at the scene without incident. Deputies recovered the firearm believed to have been used in the killing shortly after her arrest. Authorities say Osteen and the victim shared a history of domestic violence, though the nature of their current relationship remains under investigation.
According to investigators, the confrontation unfolded as both individuals arrived at the daycare to pick up their children. Witnesses reported hearing raised voices before the sound of gunfire.
As a precaution, Bradford High School—located nearby—was placed on temporary lockdown during the incident. No children or staff were physically harmed, and daycare workers acted quickly to shelter those inside.
The shocking act of violence has left the Starke community reeling. Parents and residents expressed outrage and heartbreak that such an event could occur outside a facility meant to protect and nurture young children.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” said one local mother who arrived at the scene moments after the shooting. “Our kids are supposed to be safe here. To know this happened right outside is devastating.”
Investigators are working to determine what led to the deadly encounter. Osteen remains in custody at the Bradford County Jail, with formal charges expected to be announced soon. Authorities have also confirmed that Osteen has a documented criminal history, including a 2015 arrest for domestic-related offenses.
Community leaders and advocates are now urging families impacted by domestic violence to seek help before disputes turn deadly. Local organizations are offering resources and counseling for those in need, while the school district has pledged emotional support services for affected students and staff.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office as the investigation continues.
This tragedy outside a childcare center serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unresolved domestic conflicts—and the urgent need for prevention and intervention before lives are lost.