MULBERRY, FLORIDA — In a shocking incident that has left the Mulberry community reeling, 28-year-old Victoria Dino, also known as Mary Victoria, was shot and killed early Thursday morning, October 31, 2024. The tragic events unfolded after a heated argument escalated between two men, 35-year-old Joshua Clark and 34-year-old Jose Coronado, on Levins Road. According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, the confrontation had roots in a drug-related exchange involving methamphetamine, highlighting the dangers that can stem from such illicit activities.
Details of the Incident
Sheriff Judd provided a detailed account of the events leading up to the fatal shooting during a press conference later that day. Preliminary information indicates that the altercation began around 2:00 AM when Clark and Coronado met on Levins Road. Witnesses reported that an argument erupted between the two men, which quickly escalated into violence. Victoria Dino was seated in Coronado’s car at the time, inadvertently caught in the middle of the chaos.
In a tragic turn of events, as Coronado attempted to defend himself after Clark allegedly approached with hostility, he reached for a firearm inside his vehicle. Sheriff Judd explained that while retrieving the gun, it accidentally discharged, striking Dino in the chest. “It was a horrible, tragic accident,” Judd said, expressing condolences to Dino’s family. “She was an innocent victim in this situation, and it should never have happened.”
Aftermath and Emergency Response
Following the shooting, both men fled the scene after exchanging gunfire. In a desperate attempt to save her life, Coronado drove Dino to a nearby location on Ryals Road. There, he left her on the bed of a pickup truck, instructing bystanders to take her to the hospital. Witnesses reported hearing Coronado urging them to hurry, expressing his fear of being apprehended due to an outstanding warrant for his arrest related to a previous drug trafficking charge.
“She was shot and needed immediate medical attention, and instead of staying with her, he left her to seek help,” Sheriff Judd stated, emphasizing Coronado’s lack of accountability in the critical moments following the shooting. Despite the urgency, Dino succumbed to her injuries later at the hospital, prompting an outpouring of grief from friends and family who remembered her as a loving individual with a bright future.
Arrests and Investigation
In the hours following the shooting, Polk County deputies launched an extensive manhunt for Coronado and Clark. The investigation quickly gathered momentum as law enforcement began piecing together the events of the night. According to Sheriff Judd, deputies tracked Coronado down approximately 20 miles away from the scene on Highway 17 just north of Fort Meade. He was arrested without incident and subsequently taken into custody.
As the investigation progressed, authorities confirmed that Joshua Clark was still at large. Around 1:20 PM that same day, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office announced that Clark had also been apprehended. Both men are expected to face serious charges in connection with the shooting, including homicide and aggravated assault.
Sheriff Judd affirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with detectives working tirelessly to gather evidence and testimonies from witnesses. “We will hold those responsible for this tragedy accountable,” he stated firmly.
A Community in Mourning
Victoria Dino’s death has sent shockwaves through the Mulberry community. Friends and family members have expressed their disbelief and heartbreak over the loss of a young woman whose life was tragically cut short. “Mary was loved by so many. She had so much potential and so many dreams,” said a close friend, who preferred to remain anonymous. “It’s hard to believe she’s gone, and it’s devastating to think about how it happened.”
Dino’s family has not yet released a public statement, but community members have started organizing a vigil to honor her memory and support her loved ones during this difficult time. Local residents have expressed their desire to come together to celebrate Dino’s life and raise awareness about the dangers of gun violence and drug-related activities.
The Broader Context of Violence and Substance Abuse
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing issues surrounding gun violence and substance abuse in many communities across the United States. According to recent statistics, Florida has experienced a troubling rise in both drug-related crimes and firearm incidents. Polk County, in particular, has seen its share of violent crimes linked to drug trafficking, prompting law enforcement to prioritize addressing these critical issues.
Sheriff Judd emphasized the need for community engagement and intervention to combat the factors that contribute to such violence. “We must work together as a community to address the root causes of these problems,” he remarked during the press conference. “We cannot allow situations like this to become the norm.”
Legal Ramifications and Charges Expected
As the investigation continues, legal experts predict that both Coronado and Clark may face severe consequences for their roles in the incident. Based on Florida law, charges against Coronado could include second-degree murder, given that the shooting was the result of recklessness during a drug-related altercation. Clark may also face charges related to his involvement in the argument, potentially including assault or battery.
The legal proceedings are expected to unfold in the coming weeks, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring justice for Victoria Dino and her family. “We will pursue every avenue to make sure those responsible are held accountable for their actions,” Sheriff Judd vowed.
Advocacy for Change: The Need for Action Against Gun Violence
In light of this tragic shooting, community leaders and advocates are calling for renewed efforts to combat gun violence and substance abuse in Florida. Organizations focused on violence prevention have begun to mobilize, aiming to educate the public about the dangers of illegal drug trade and its link to violence. “This is not just about one incident; it’s about changing the culture of violence and making our communities safer,” stated a representative from a local advocacy group.
The call for action resonates deeply in the wake of Dino’s death, as community members reflect on the loss and the need for change. Vigils and community meetings are being planned to discuss how residents can work together to foster a safer environment for all.
Conclusion: Remembering Victoria Dino
As the community grapples with the loss of Victoria Dino, it is essential to remember the person she was beyond the tragedy of her death. Friends and family are sharing stories of her kindness, her passion for life, and her dreams for the future. “Mary had such a beautiful spirit. She brought joy to everyone around her,” a family member shared.
In the days and weeks to come, as the investigation continues and legal actions unfold, the focus will remain on honoring Victoria Dino’s memory and advocating for a safer community. The Mulberry community stands united in mourning her loss, determined to ensure that her story sparks change and that such a tragedy does not happen again.
As details regarding memorial services and vigils are finalized, the community is reminded of the importance of supporting one another during this difficult time. Victoria Dino’s life, while tragically cut short, will be remembered for the love she brought into the world and the profound impact she had on those around her.
