Release from Alachua County Sheriff’s Office

NEWBERRY, Fla. – On Sunday, May 25, 2025, at approximately 11:40 a.m., the Combined Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting that a person had been shot at 25721 NW 7th Place in the City of Newberry.

Deputies responded immediately, with the first two arriving on scene at 11:44 a.m.—just four minutes after the initial call. These Deputies began administering life-saving aid to the male victim, later identified as 44-year-old Harley Van Leer. Additional Deputies began interviewing witnesses, who reported that the suspect, identified as 19-year-old David Martin Jr., had fled the area on foot.

Click here for Alachua Chronicle’s article about David Martin’s arrest.

Emergency medical personnel from both the City of Newberry Fire Department and Alachua County Fire Rescue arrived and continued providing care to Mr. Van Leer. He was transported to the UF Health Trauma Center, where, sadly, he died as a result of his injuires.

While on scene, Deputies were approached by Mr. Martin, who admitted to being responsible for the shooting. He was immediately detained and secured in a patrol vehicle pending the arrival of Detectives.

During the investigation, an eyewitness reported seeing Mr. Martin run toward the backyard of a nearby duplex, where he appeared to conceal a firearm inside a propane grill. The firearm was located and collected by Crime Scene Investigators.

Following an interview with Detectives, Mr. Martin was arrested and charged with one count of Carrying a Concealed Firearm and one count of Tampering with Evidence.

This investigation remains in its early stages. While Deputies, Detectives, and Crime Scene Investigators have interviewed several witnesses and gathered substantial evidence, many questions remain. Our Detectives are committed to thoroughly examining all aspects of this case to determine the circumstances that led to the tragic death of Mr. Van Leer.

The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to Mr. Van Leer’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at 352-367-4170 or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 352-372-7867.