JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville community is reeling after the fatal shooting of Stephen Shahly, a 43-year-old father, whose body was discovered in a garage on Rustic Green Court. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene following reports of gunfire at approximately 5:30 p.m.

Authorities have since taken 44-year-old Donald Rentfrow Jr. into custody in connection with Shahly’s death. Arrested on Tuesday morning, Rentfrow was apprehended during a SWAT operation at his residence and subsequently detained at Duval County jail.

Upon learning of the tragic incident, Shahly’s prospective brother-in-law, Zach Schwenke, hurried to the location.

“I was at home when my nephew, who lives with me, informed me of the shooting, and we came here immediately,” Schwenke recounted.

Schwenke said Shahly was engaged to his sister and became the father figure he never had.

“He was a good man, but even a better father. He helped me recognize just, through my background of having no father, barely a mother at a time before she passed, how important a parental figure is,” said Schwenke.

He said Shahly’s four children were his entire world; He was always at their games, cheering them on.

“He cared about his community and the kids better than I knew,” said Schwenke.

The Mandarin Sports Association, where Shahly’s children played, mourned his passing in a statement to First Coast News:

“We were deeply saddened to learn of his passing. Mr. Shahly and his family had spent time with us here at MSA, and they’ll always be part of our extended sports family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”

Schwenke said Shahly’s impact stretched beyond his own family, shaping others through his kindness and example.

“He showed me how I could be a cornerstone if I needed to, how many young men could be a cornerstone.” said Schwenke.

The suspect, Rentfrow Jr., is charged with 2nd degree murder and scheduled to make his first appearance in court on Wednesday.