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COCOA, FL — Detectives with the Cocoa Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID) have arrested two individuals—one an adult and one a juvenile—in connection with the attempted murder of a 17-year-old male. The arrests were made within 24 hours of the shooting, highlighting the department’s swift action and commitment to public safety.
The incident occurred on the evening of Sunday, July 7th. Around 9:00 p.m., Cocoa’s communications center received a 911 call from the parent or guardian of the victim, reporting the teen had been shot in the head. Remarkably, the 17-year-old was alert and speaking. He was immediately transported to the hospital by his guardian, where he was later interviewed by detectives.
According to police, the shooting stemmed from an earlier confrontation in the Sunrise Village neighborhood. The victim had been riding in a vehicle with a juvenile friend when they were confronted by two males who made verbal threats and displayed a firearm. A short time later, as the teen walked home, the suspects approached him again. One of the suspects then opened fire, striking the victim in the head.
Through witness interviews and surveillance footage, detectives quickly identified the suspects as Michael McNeeley (DOB: 11/05/2007) and Gavin Neal (DOB: 05/16/2005). Both were taken into custody without incident thanks to a coordinated operation involving the Cocoa SWAT team, Rockledge Police Department, and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Game Over Task Force.
The firearm used in the shooting has since been recovered.
“Our detectives worked together with our law enforcement partners to ensure these two individuals were apprehended swiftly and safely,” said CID Lieutenant Bryan Stillwell. “I am proud of the professionalism and dedication shown in this case. Their efforts not only delivered justice for the victim but also removed a firearm from dangerous individuals, making our community safer.”
The Cocoa Police Department is continuing its focus on crime prevention and public safety. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity and remain engaged with law enforcement to keep the community safe.
Anyone with additional information regarding this case is urged to contact the Cocoa Police Department or Crimeline anonymously at 1-800-423-TIPS.
