NR 21-25 Juvenile Charged in Funeral Service Shooting

16-year-old Jonterich Lemar Smith of Cocoa, has been formerly charged with Carrying a Concealed Firearm and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Person under 18 in connection with the November 28, 2020, shooting incident that occurred at the funeral service of Sincere Pierce.  Smith was formerly served with those charges while appearing in juvenile court on an unrelated criminal matter, May 10, 2021.

The investigation began on November 28, 2020, when deputies responded to Riverview Memorial Gardens in Cocoa after it was reported that two persons were shot.  It was reported at that time that Smith and Quashedra Pierce had sustained gunshot wounds during the funeral service.  Witnesses reported hearing a gunshot after which Ms. Pierce stated she had been shot.  It was later determined that Smith had also sustained a gunshot injury.

Based on interviews and evidence collected at the cemetery, hospital, as well as forensic analysis, Smith allegedly discharged a firearm concealed in his waist area.  The projectile travelled through his thigh, exiting his pants leg where it struck Ms. Pierce in the lower leg, travelling through and through before entering the platform they were standing on.  Forensic testing confirmed the presence of gunshot residue on the interior of the pants that Smith was wearing at the time of the shooting.

Ms. Pierce chose not to prosecute any person responsible for her gunshot injury.

Upon conclusion, the criminal investigative findings were forwarded to the State Attorney’s Office who after review of the comprehensive investigation, determined that Smith should be charged with the above criminal offenses.

To read the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigative Report please click the following link: 2020-415015_Redacted

Smith is currently being sought in reference to an active Take into Custody Order concerning an unrelated Grand Theft Auto and Theft criminal investigation.  Anyone with information as to his whereabouts are asked to please contact the GAMEOVER Task Force at 321-633-1216 or CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).  All calls to CRIMELINE are confidential and callers can remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward.

For additional information concerning this News Release, please call PIO Tod Goodyear of the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office at 321-501-7594.