Tensions ran high at the Titusville City Council meeting on Tuesday night as residents, including the mother of 26-year-old Tri-Marea Rayquan Charles, voiced concerns about a recent officer-involved shooting. The meeting, held at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 11, provided a platform for community members to address Mayor Dan Conners and the City Council regarding the fatal encounter.

The shooting occurred around 9:15 p.m. on Feb. 7 in the area of Robbins Avenue. According to the Titusville Police Department (TPD), officers responded to a suspicious incident and encountered Charles, who was armed with a handgun. Officers fired their weapons, and Charles was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. No officers were injured.

Titusville Police Involved in Fatal Shooting, FDLE Investigating

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is leading the investigation, with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office assisting in crime scene processing and evidence handling. Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of the shooting, stating that additional information will only be made public once the investigation is complete.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, Charles’s mother emotionally addressed city officials, demanding answers about why she had not been allowed to see her son.

“So I’m asking you, Mayor, can you ask him? Why I haven’t seen my baby? He’s right back there. You can’t ask him?” she pleaded, referring to Police Chief John Lau. Mayor Conners responded, acknowledging her frustration but explaining that the City Council does not have direct control over the investigation.

“Thank you for coming here. We talked on Sunday and again, we can’t, because…we as the policymakers don’t have those answers that you’re seeking. I understand this is frustrating. The investigation is not— and you know, unfortunately, our hands are tied as well,” Conners stated during the meeting.

The exchange grew tense, with interruptions from the audience. As emotions ran high, the mayor ultimately called for a recess.

Titusville Police Chief John Lau has been in contact with Charles’s family, stating that they will be informed of investigation findings before any public release. Officials stated “any comments in reference to the investigation, excluding the initial statement from TPD, are extremely premature and all details and information related to this incident will be released only after FDLE/BCSO have concluded the investigation.”

“This is a tragedy that has impacted many community members and our law enforcement team members,” TPD stated. “Our thoughts and prayers are with all of them during this difficult time.”

The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been provided by officials.