JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – An 18-year-old working at a Burger King on the Westside was fatally shot Saturday night when he tried to break up a fight between two men inside the restaurant, according to a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office arrest report.
One of the men involved in the fight was also shot but is expected to recover, police said.
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Dawud Burritt, 28, has been arrested in connection with the double shooting at the Burger King on Blanding Boulevard near Collins Road.
According to his arrest report, Burritt showed up at the Burger King and was recognized in the lobby by 33-year-old Ray Cummings Jr.
Cummings later told police that he and Burritt had been friends for eight years but had not spoken in about a year because of a falling out.
Cummings said when he tried to shake hands with Burritt, an argument started that turned into a physical fight.
That’s when 18-year-old Matthew Jackson tried to intervene and break up the fight.
Cummings and other witnesses said that’s when Burritt pulled out a gun and everyone ran.
Witnesses reported hearing two shots and then seeing Burritt run out of the Burger King.
At least one of the witnesses called 911 when the fight broke out. When police got to the restaurant, they found Jackson dead near the rear drive-thru window.
Cummings was found wounded outside near the back of the Burger King.
Burritt was arrested the next day and is facing charges of armed burglary, second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder.
Jackson’s mother told News4JAX her son was a senior at Riverside High School and was scheduled to be sworn into the military next week, as he planned to join the Marines after graduating this coming May.
Jackson’s mom described him on social media as a “good soul.”
She also told News4JAX that she wants the community to know how grateful her family is for all the support and prayers. She asked that people continue to keep them in their prayers during this time.
The Burger King remained closed on Monday. Police said the investigation is ongoing.
A spokesperson for Burger King released the following statement:
We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident and our hearts go out to the family, friends, and Team Members impacted.
The Franchisee is cooperating with local authorities and offering counseling support to Team Members. The safety and well-being of everyone in Burger King restaurants is our top priority, and the restaurant will continue to follow security protocols while reviewing any additional measures with law enforcement.
If you have any information that will help with the case, call 904-630-0500 or remain anonymous by calling CrimeStoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
A GoFundMe account has been set up to help Jackson’s family.