Hollywood police identified former Florida State University football player Octavious Jackson as one of two victims killed in a shooting roughly an hour after midnight on Dec 1. Jackson, 44, was reportedly attempting to break up a fight when he was fatally shot at Hollywood Jaycee Hall, a rental venue in Hollywood, Florida. According to law enforcement officials, an additional two people were also injured during the shooting.
The incident occurred during an anniversary celebration attended by approximately 80 guests. Jaycee Hall manager Deborah Gronvold described the aftermath of the shooting as deeply unsettling. She said the event’s organizers were first-time customers and noted that the shooting occurred near the conclusion of the party, around 1 a.m. Gronvold added that the hall’s rental agreement explicitly prohibits firearms, though she expressed frustration over attendees disregarding such policies.
“When we have the contract with the client, they’re responsible for their guests,” Gronvold said. “We have a detailed contract that says no firearms, but like anyone reads that.”
According to Gronvold, the event’s host was uncertain if the shooter was even an attendee. No arrests have been made, but authorities said they have identified several persons of interest in the case.
Mimi Miller, a neighbor of the hall, said she didn’t hear the gunshots but noted loud events at the venue had previously awakened her. “It was frankly quite frightening because the bullets could have come through the house,” Miller said to CBS News.
The incident has prompted Jaycee Hall management to review its security measures; Gronvold plans to install additional surveillance cameras and require off-duty police officers to be present at future late-night events.
Jackson was once a star on the field, playing a pivotal role in the FSU Seminoles’ perfect 12-0 season in 1999. That season eventually culminated in a 46-29 win over Virginia Tech in the Sugar Bowl. A standout at Miami Carol City High School, Jackson was ranked by the Sun Sentinel among the top four recruits in Florida in 1998.
His time at Florida State included memorable moments such as taking a photo with then-President Bill Clinton. While his professional football prospects never materialized, Jackson remained a respected figure in his community. The circumstances of the shooting remain under investigation, and Hollywood police have asked anyone with information to come forward.
For now, the focus remains on seeking justice and understanding the events that led to the tragedy. Police and community members hope for swift answers and accountability in the case.
