James Scott Freeman, 37, of Orlando died on October 7, 2015. Born September 7, 1978, he was a lifelong Orlando resident remembered by family and community for a vibrant personality and his contributions to those around him.

Investigators treated Freeman’s death as suspicious after initial findings indicated it was not natural. He was involved in a violent altercation at a local bar shortly before his death and sustained fatal injuries. Witnesses at the scene provided information that helped identify several suspects; one person with a reported history of violent behavior had been seen arguing with Freeman that night and was arrested and charged in connection with the killing.

The case went to trial, where the defense argued self-defense while the prosecution relied on eyewitness testimony and forensic analysis. The jury convicted the accused of second-degree murder, a verdict that brought some measure of closure to Freeman’s family. If anyone knew James, his routines, or saw anything relevant on the night of October 7, 2015, please come forward with information.