News Summary
A lawsuit has been filed by the family of Timothy Schmidt Jr., a UCF student tragically killed in a shooting during a Halloween event in Orlando. The family alleges negligence in crowd management by city officials. The incident left one other dead and multiple injured, prompting calls for improved security measures at large gatherings. The family seeks accountability and plans to establish a nonprofit to support victims of violent crimes. The community mourns as discussions around public safety intensify.
Orlando Family Files Lawsuit After UCF Student Killed in Halloween Shooting
Orlando, FL – Timothy Schmidt Jr., a 19-year-old freshman marketing student at the University of Central Florida (UCF), was tragically killed during a mass shooting on November 1, 2024, in downtown Orlando. Schmidt, affectionately called “Timo” by friends and family, was one of two victims in the incident that left numerous others injured. His father, Timothy Schmidt Sr., is now pursuing legal action against the City of Orlando and the Orlando Police Department, alleging negligence in their crowd control and safety management efforts during the crowded Halloween celebration.
On the night of the shooting, approximately 75,000 people gathered in downtown Orlando for festivities when violence erupted. Timothy Schmidt Sr. noted that his last words to his son were a text reminding him to “have fun and be safe.” When Schmidt Jr.’s friends expressed concern over his whereabouts after the incident, the family learned of his tragic fate. The police have charged 17-year-old Jaylen Edgar as an adult with murder and other crimes related to the shooting.
Details of the Incident
The tragic event resulted in the death of Schmidt Jr. alongside another victim, with seven additional individuals sustaining injuries. In the aftermath, sorrow engulfed the Schmidt family, who described the loss of their son as “the ultimate loss.” Schmidt Sr. recalled joyful moments spent with Timo, including the time his son served as the best man at his wedding. The family is now seeking accountability for the security failures they believe contributed to the incident.
Legal Action and Future Plans
With the assistance of attorney Michael Haggard, the Schmidt family is filing a lawsuit that emphasizes the need for better security planning and crowd management for large events. The family’s attorney highlighted that, had appropriate measures been in place, the tragic shooting could have been avoided. In addition to pursuing justice through legal means, the Schmidt family plans to establish a nonprofit organization titled “Until Forever,” aimed at providing support to families affected by violent crimes.
Police Response and City Officials’ Remarks
Orlando Police Chief stated that around 100 officers were deployed to manage security at the Halloween event. However, he acknowledged that recent legislative changes related to concealed carry laws had complicated crowd control efforts. Following the shooting, Orlando’s downtown area has implemented safety modifications, including the reopening of certain roads and the installation of barricades intended to better manage future gatherings.
Ongoing Community Impact
The community remains in shock over the events that unfolded during the celebration. The lawsuit serves as a call for accountability and highlights the critical need to ensure public safety measures are in place for high-attendance events. City officials have refrained from commenting on the ongoing litigation when approached by reporters.
The memory of Timothy Schmidt Jr., who was known for his caring nature and close friendships, will continue to resonate within his family and the broader community as they navigate their grief and seek change following this tragic loss.
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Additional Resources
- WESH
- Wikipedia: Orlando
- NBC Miami
- Google Search: Orlando Halloween shooting
- Click Orlando
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Halloween
- Orlando Sentinel
- Google News: Orlando Halloween shooting
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
