Dylan Jenkins was 18 and home from Madonna University when he was killed at a holiday gathering on December 29, 2021. A recent Riverview High School graduate and standout in football and track, Dylan had completed his first semester in Michigan and was described as having an infectious smile and a bright presence among family, friends, and teammates.

The gathering took place at Ackerman Park in Sarasota County. An argument among other individuals escalated and shots were fired into the crowd. Dylan, who was not involved in the altercation, was struck in the back by a bullet and pronounced dead shortly after; the wound reached his lung and aorta.

An arrest was made in connection with the shooting. Dylan’s community from Sarasota to his college continues to mourn his loss and remember his life. If anyone was at Ackerman Park that night or has information about the shooting, please come forward to investigators.