In the early hours of Friday, November 29, 2024, tragedy struck the St. Hebron community in Gadsden County, Florida, as two young men lost their lives in a fatal shooting on Post Plant Road. The victims, identified as 20-year-old Kenwan Kilgore and 26-year-old Bre Shawn Malone, were discovered by deputies responding to reports of gunfire in the 1700 block of Post Plant Road. The Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) has launched an extensive investigation into the incident, working alongside the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
When law enforcement arrived at the scene shortly after midnight, they found both Kilgore and Malone suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite prompt attention, the injuries proved fatal, and the two men were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have stated that they have identified a person of interest in connection with the case but have not yet made any arrests. As investigators continue their work, the close-knit St. Hebron community is grappling with the sudden loss of two beloved individuals.
The Events Leading to the Shooting
While details about what led to the shooting remain unclear, investigators are pursuing several leads to determine a motive. GCSO deputies have canvassed the area, spoken with potential witnesses, and collected evidence from the scene. Forensic experts are analyzing ballistic data and other physical evidence to piece together the sequence of events. Authorities are also reviewing nearby surveillance footage in the hopes of identifying critical information that could shed light on the tragedy.
Post Plant Road, a quiet stretch in the rural St. Hebron community, has rarely been the site of violent crime, making the double homicide particularly shocking for residents. Neighbors have expressed disbelief and concern over the violence, describing their neighborhood as peaceful and tight-knit. “This is the kind of place where everyone knows each other,” said longtime resident Martha Coleman. “It’s hard to understand how something like this could happen here.”
Remembering Kenwan Kilgore and Bre Shawn Malone
The loss of Kenwan Kilgore and Bre Shawn Malone has reverberated through the community, leaving friends, family, and neighbors mourning their untimely deaths.
Kenwan Kilgore, just 20 years old, was described by those who knew him as a kind-hearted and ambitious young man. A graduate of a local high school, Kilgore had recently begun working toward a career in construction, hoping to one day start his own business. Friends recall his infectious smile and his unwavering dedication to his family. “Kenwan was the kind of person who always put others first,” said longtime friend DeShawn Carter. “He was driven, hardworking, and had so much potential. Losing him like this is unbearable.”
Bre Shawn Malone, 26, was equally beloved within the community. A father of two young children, Malone was deeply involved in their lives, striving to provide them with a better future. Known for his love of music and his talent for songwriting, he often performed at local events and church gatherings. “Bre Shawn had a way of bringing people together through his music,” said Pastor Lawrence Jenkins of the St. Hebron Baptist Church. “He was a gifted young man with a heart full of love for his family and his community. His loss is devastating for all of us.”
A Community in Mourning
As news of the shooting spread, community members came together to honor the memories of Kilgore and Malone. On Saturday evening, a candlelight vigil was held near the site of the shooting, with more than 200 people in attendance. Family members, friends, and local leaders shared heartfelt stories and reflections, highlighting the profound impact the two men had on those around them.
During the vigil, Bre Shawn’s mother, Deborah Malone, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support. “I never thought I’d have to stand here and speak about my son in the past tense,” she said, her voice trembling with emotion. “But seeing all of you here tonight reminds me of how much Bre Shawn was loved. I just want justice for my son and for Kenwan.”
Community leaders emphasized the importance of unity and collective action in the face of tragedy. Sheriff Morris Young, a native of Gadsden County and a vocal advocate for community-police collaboration, urged residents to come forward with any information that might help the investigation. “We owe it to these young men and their families to find the truth,” he said. “We need your help to bring those responsible to justice.”
Calls for Justice and Preventing Future Violence
The deaths of Kilgore and Malone have reignited discussions about gun violence and public safety in Gadsden County. While the rural community has seen a decrease in overall crime rates in recent years, incidents of gun violence continue to pose a significant challenge. Local leaders and activists are calling for increased resources for youth outreach programs, conflict resolution initiatives, and community engagement efforts aimed at preventing such tragedies in the future.
Organizations like Big Bend Crime Solvers have stepped up their efforts to encourage residents to report any information about the incident anonymously. “Even the smallest detail could be the key to solving this case,” said Crime Solvers coordinator Patricia Turner. “We’re committed to ensuring that justice is served, and we need the community’s help to make that happen.”
Broader Implications and Reflections
The tragedy on Post Plant Road has underscored the far-reaching consequences of gun violence, not only for the victims and their families but also for the community as a whole. As Gadsden County works to heal, many residents are reflecting on the systemic issues that contribute to such incidents, including poverty, limited access to education, and the prevalence of firearms.
Community advocates are calling for renewed investment in programs that provide opportunities for at-risk youth, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, education, and job training. “We have to give our young people hope and a path forward,” said local activist Raymond Lewis. “That’s how we honor the memories of Kenwan and Bre Shawn—by ensuring that no more lives are lost to senseless violence.”
Moving Forward
In the weeks and months ahead, the families of Kenwan Kilgore and Bre Shawn Malone will face the daunting task of navigating their grief while seeking justice for their loved ones. Funeral arrangements for both men are currently being finalized, with services expected to draw large crowds of mourners.
As the investigation continues, the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office has pledged to keep the community informed and to exhaust every avenue in their pursuit of answers. In the meantime, the St. Hebron community remains united in its resolve to support the victims’ families and to work toward a safer, more compassionate future.
Through their pain, the families of Kilgore and Malone are finding strength in the love and support of their community. Their hope is that this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for change, ensuring that no other families have to endure the heartache they are experiencing.
The legacy of Kenwan Kilgore and Bre Shawn Malone will live on in the hearts of those who knew them and in the efforts of a community determined to honor their memory through action and unity. As Gadsden County mourns its loss, it also looks ahead with a renewed commitment to building a future where such tragedies become a thing of the past.
