Crime

Senior Arrested for Murder in De Leon Springs

Allegedly Shot Neighbor Over Trespassing Accusation

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DE LEON SPRINGS, Fla. - A 78-year-old man has been arrested and charged with second degree murder after a dispute over property boundaries Sunday evening turned deadly. Edward S. Druzolowski is accused of killing 42-year-old Brian J. Ford in the altercation.

According to a statement by the Volusia Sheriff's Office, the incident began when Druzolowski confronted Ford, his neighbor, about standing on his property as Ford was trimming tree limbs. He reportedly told Ford to leave and threatened to shoot him if he didn't. He apparently followed through on his threat.

Murder suspect Edward Druzolowski.
Murder suspect Edward Druzolowski.

Police say Druzolowski told them all of these details after they responded and questioned him. Two 911 calls were placed by witnesses around 7:13 pm, and EMS responders attempted to save Ford's life upon arrival. He was pronounced dead at the scene of the crime.

After being questioned, Druzolowski was arrested by VSO deputies and taken to the Volusia County Branch Jail. He has no prior criminal history in Volusia County. He's charged with second degree murder with a firearm, and is being held on no bond pending his first court appearance.

As of Monday morning little else has been made publicly available by the VSO, but more updates are expected to follow over the course of the day and week.