Two Women Shot and Killed at Arcadia Apartment Complex; Suspect Arrested

A tragic domestic violence incident in Arcadia, Florida has left two women dead after a shooting at an apartment complex, with a suspect now in custody, according to local authorities.

Law enforcement says the incident unfolded at a residential complex and remains under active investigation.

What We Know About the Shooting

According to the Arcadia Police Department and the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, officers responded to a reported shooting around 9:13 a.m. on April 17, 2026, at the Jacaranda Trail Apartments.

When officers arrived, they located a woman who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Shortly after, authorities located a suspect, identified as Eric Devon Robinson, in the surrounding area and took him into custody.

While still investigating the scene later that afternoon, officers were alerted to a second victim in a nearby building. The second woman had also been shot and killed.

Charges Filed Against the Suspect

Robinson is currently being held without bond at the DeSoto County Jail and faces multiple serious charges, including:

• Two counts of first-degree premeditated murder
• Two counts of aggravated assault with intent to commit a felony
• Possession of a weapon by a convicted felon
• Kidnapping/false imprisonment
• Obstruction of justice (tampering with evidence)
• Firing a weapon into a dwelling
• Armed robbery

Authorities have not yet released additional details about the relationship between the suspect and the victims.

Domestic Violence and Escalation Risks

Incidents involving domestic disputes can escalate quickly and become deadly, particularly when firearms are involved.

Warning signs often include:

• Prior threats or violent behavior
• Escalating arguments or confrontations
• Access to weapons
• Attempts to control or isolate victims

These cases are often complex and may involve multiple criminal and civil legal considerations.

Civil Liability in Fatal Shooting Cases

In addition to criminal charges, fatal shootings may also give rise to civil wrongful death claims.

Under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act, Florida Statutes §§ 768.16–768.26, surviving family members may pursue compensation if another person’s intentional or negligent actions caused a loved one’s death.

Potential damages may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship and protection
• Mental pain and suffering

In cases involving intentional violence, punitive damages may also be available.

Importance of a Thorough Investigation

Cases involving multiple victims and serious criminal charges often require extensive investigation.

Key evidence may include:

• Witness statements
• Surveillance footage
• Forensic and ballistic analysis
• Prior history between the parties
• Digital communications

The findings of the investigation may impact both criminal proceedings and any potential civil claims.

Investigation Ongoing

The Arcadia Police Department and DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Our Thoughts Are With the Victims’ Families

Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families throughout Florida in wrongful death cases involving intentional violence and preventable tragedies. If your loved one was killed due to another person’s actions, our firm can help you understand your legal rights and options.

We offer free consultations and handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation for your family.