DELAND, Fla. – DeLand police are investigating the deaths of two young men found shot on a vacant industrial property near the historic Athens Theatre.
Officers responded at approximately 10:40 p.m. Wednesday to 213 W. New York Ave. — a property behind the Athens Theatre.
In a news conference, DeLand Police Chief Jason Umberger said both men had been shot multiple times.
The victims were identified as Dustin Rose, 19, formerly of DeLeon Springs, and Sampson Campbell, 18, formerly of DeLand.
Police said the two were childhood friends, and it’s undetermined if they were targeted.
“Our thoughts and our prayers are with these two young men who lost their lives and their families,” Chief Jason Umberger said.
The case is classified as a homicide investigation. No suspects have been identified.
Anyone with information is asked to contact DeLand police’s Crimewatch portal or call the Criminal Investigations Division at (386) 626-7400.
The Athens Theatre is one of downtown DeLand’s most recognizable landmarks. It first opened in 1922 and regularly hosts concerts and plays.
In a social media post on Thursday, the theatre said the day’s events will continue as scheduled.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.