Arrest Made In Merritt Island Teen Shooting

MERRITT ISLAND, Florida — The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office has charged 22-year-old Rodney Clay Patrick, Jr. of  Merritt Island, Florida, in the shooting of a teen that occurred at Patrick, Jr.’s residence on Floral Lane last night.

The victim, 17-year-old Douglas Trey Winslow, was visiting the residence when the shooting occurred.  Patrick was charged with manslaughter with a firearm, tampering with evidence, and the possession of a controlled aubstance.  Patrick, Jr. is being held at the Brevard County Jail on a no bond release status.

Investigators say that the two males were at the residence listening to music when Patrick, Jr. picked up the firearm, which he allegedly thought was not loaded, and started acting out the lyrics of the song.  Part of the song included pointing the firearm at the victim when it discharged, killing him.

The Sheriff’s Office is asking that anyone with information related to this case to please call Agent Wayne Simock of the Homicide Unit via the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center at 321-633-7162 or CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).  Callers to CRIMELINE can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.