JACKSONVILLE, FL — What began as a seemingly ordinary afternoon at a popular Southside restaurant ended in heartbreak and violence, as 31-year-old Kenny Mob was fatally shot in the parking lot of Copeland’s of New Orleans on Wednesday, June 11.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) responded to reports of a shooting just after 2:30 p.m. in the 4300 block of Southside Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers found Mob suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, he later succumbed to his injuries.
According to police, Mob had reportedly gone to the restaurant parking lot to meet with an individual. The reason for the meeting remains under investigation. What followed was a flurry of law enforcement activity — a JSO helicopter hovered overhead, drones scanned the area, and K-9 units were deployed as part of the response.
A black or dark-colored four-door vehicle, possibly a Nissan, was seen leaving the area and is of particular interest to investigators. While three individuals were detained for questioning, authorities have yet to confirm whether any were involved in the shooting or knew the victim.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion. Yana Royter, an employee at a nearby coffee shop, recalled the sound of gunfire. “Two of my coworkers ran back inside, and I locked the back door,” she said. “It was terrifying. I’m just grateful the police got here so quickly.”
As news of Mob’s death spread, an outpouring of grief and disbelief followed from friends, family, and members of the community. “Kenny was always smiling,” one acquaintance posted on social media. “He didn’t deserve this.”
JSO is asking the public for help. Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to call the JSO non-emergency line at 904-630-0500, or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS (8477).
As police continue their investigation, a family mourns a loved one lost far too soon, and a city is left reeling from yet another act of senseless violence.
Kenny Mob’s life ended in tragedy — but justice for him remains in reach