Last Updated: 2:21 p.m.
A 19-year-old man was shot allegedly by his neighbor at 1:10 p.m. this afternoon at 13 Fulton Place in Palm Coast. The victim was shot in the chest and flown to Halifax hospital in Daytona Beach.
The victim was identified as Marco Salazar. His condition Sunday morning was still unclear.
The suspect, Levi Evan Ovenshire, 19, fled in a tan Honda Accord (with a “Coexist” bumper sticker), and was detected at 1:29 p.m. by an unmarked Flagler County Sheriff’s vehicle at the intersection of Old Kings Road and Town Center Boulevard, where a chase began as Ovenshire did not stop.
“We attempted multiple times to put down our stop sticks, he drove around them,” Sheriff Rick Staly said at the scene. Ovenshire evaded those several attempts in Palm Coast’s R-Section, speeding through Ryan Drive, Rymfire Drive, Relay Court and Raleigh Drive before stop sticks and a convergence of sheriff’s vehicles cornered him on the shoulder of Raleigh Drive and Rae Drive. By then, two, possibly three deputies’ vehicles had been damaged either directly by the suspect’s maneuvers or as a result of the chase.
“Possibly three cars with minor damage. Unfortunately that’s the cost of apprehending dirt bags sometimes. I’m just glad that no one was injured either by citizens or by my deputies because he was driving like a maniac.”
Ovenshire was apprehended at 1:50 p.m., 21 minutes after the chase began–sparing deputies another manhunt less than 48 hours after they’d gone on a six-hour manhunt for a suspect who’d fled after, merely bumping into a sheriff’s vehicle.
“We’re still looking for the weapon,” Staly said. “We have him in custody, that gives us time to finish building the case on him.” The shooting took place at his house, apparently outside. The house will be searched once warrants are secured. Staly added: “We can take our time to do the search warrants, search the route he took, because we know he threw all kinds of stuff out.”
The sheriff was in weekend gear, in shorts, on his way with his wife Debbie to Daytona Beach’s Skip’s Western Store, where he was to buy a cowboy hat. Spotting the “Coexist” bumper sticker on the car Ovenshire crashed, the sheriff said: “apparently he can’t coexist.”
“We’re securing his house, we’re securing the crime scene of the shooting,” the sheriff said not long after the arrest, “our investigators are in route, our CSI unit is in route, we have multiple crime scenes at this point.” He said there is a “known relationship” between the victim and the suspect, though it’s not clear what sort.
Ovenshire, a resident of 13 Fulton Place, was arrested last month on a minor drug possession charge (possession of drug paraphernalia), a misdemeanor. The charge was dropped 10 days ago. In November 2015 on two drug possession charges and on two felony charges of principle to a crime: he had been at the wheel of a Saturn in an incident on Belle Terre Parkway when a 17-year-old girl riding with him was charged with pointing an assault-rifle lookalike toy, painted all black, as it traveled down the road. All charges against Ovenshire were eventually dropped.
The victim in the incident was found across the street in his garage.
[This is a developing story. More soon.]
Parker says
Are we getting more and more like Orlando with crime?
Cause, it definitely seems to be getting worse. It seems the crimes getting committed are serious and extremely dangerous. Kids could have been playing in those streets.
What the hell is wrong with everybody.
Good job Mr.Staly!
bill harvey says
might as well drop these charges just like all the other ones during the past two years
FlaglerResident says
And residents of palm coast has so much to say about Bunnell really funny cause we don’t have this type of crime going on in Bunnell! 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Bob Calabrese's says
Easy to see that he is a frequent flyer. I think this catch and release needs to be looked at with our judiciary in mind
Hopeful says
Nice to see Sheriff Staley so involved. But it’s concerning that there are so many incidents in Palm Coast lately. We’re use to seeing this in Bunnell but not in Palm Coast.
Seriously?? says
If any of you think the crime here is anywhere near the crime in a bigger city like Orlando you’re delusional. This is a small town so you hear about every crime that happens. This sort of things happen in places like Orlando daily. If the news covered every single one they wouldn’t have time for anything else. Seriously people do you hear of shootings and high speed chases every day here in Palm Coast or even Flagler county as a whole…..no you don’t. I’m from a big city and this is a very safe area in comparison. I will say this when you have a town that really has nothing to keep the youth entertained they usually turn to drugs and drugs lead to crime.
logic2017 says
One or two incidence isn’t a large enough sample size to determine anything. Look at yearly crime stats.
P.S Crime happens everywhere and is largely influence by populations size/density and income/education
John F Pollinger says
Looking at the incidents over the past several months I can tell you this; crime is going to happen all over, but the way the law enforcement agency responds to the crimes determines a lot. What you are seeing is people being apprehended swiftly. It takes time for an agency with new leadership to develop a reputation for zero tolerance and quick apprehension. From mother vehicle violations, to unlicensed contractors to the more serious Part One crimes, including what you have just read. Its all inclusive, not one over the other. Once that reputation is solidly established, potential criminals and those with criminal backgrounds are more likely to move from the area to a place they won’t be “hassled” with the likelihood of being caught. It works……I know. The sheriff showing up on scene and diverting from his “off duty” personal obligations is just something a law enforcement leader does……many times I showed up on a scene in shorts and sneakers. Not to take command….you already have competent personnel on scene to handle it. But to ensure the necessary resources are authorized to get the job done. I’m sure that’s one of the main reasons he is there. To ensure everyone is OK and all available resources are activated and authorized to help the deputies on scene. It will take time, but what you are seeing WILL have an effect on the crime rate in Flagler County.
Loving life says
Great job Flagler County Sheriff Office
Anonymous says
I’ve know this kid since he was 5. Idk what has happened to him over the years. It’s sad.
Debra Boos says
Darn skippy Rick! It is the price we pay for catching dirt bags!
Love our Sheriff, now go get that cowboy hat sir!
Brian says
Gotta love Sheriff Staly! He tells it like it is (dirtbags) and appears committed to be actively involved in situations such as this.
Anon says
I’ve known him since Elementary school. He changed a lot when he started doing drugs. It’s a shame.
Anon R-Section says
Good Job Flagler Sheriff police force. Timeline was pretty spot on. All needed resources were on seen. Search dogs were there just in case. Intimidation tactics were in place. I’m Originally from So.Florida; so to me there is still very little crime here. There must of been 15 vehicles at the seen. From what I have heard we catch suspects almost all the time. Thanks for everything you guys do.
woodchuck says
Keep dropping charges and we will see him again on Flagler Live.
Too close for comfort says
Thanks to Flagler’s finest! This is about 100 feet from my front door! Unfortunately, things may get worse before better. Stay vigil, my neighbors…
Kathy says
Good work by the officers. Glad there weren’t any innocent bystanders harmed. I only pray that they put him away for awhile since this isn’t his first offense. Please make our streets safer and set an example for the trouble makers.
Paul says
I found the victim in my grandfather s garage asking for help he didn’t live here my aunt is a nurse and tended to his wound till the medics got here
CT says
More impressed with Sheriff Staley by the day. Goes for the department too. Good job!
By the way, keep up the pressure on red light runners! Good revenue for the city from their contributions and enhanced safety for all of us.
CT says
Safety is not a relative thing when crime occurs in your backyard.
Anonymous says
I could rant about the dirt bags in our town, but I would rather mention how awesome Staly is. Awesome to see him so involved, and his quotes, and the fact that he was headed to buy a cowboy hat had me laughing.
Itsme says
State attorneys office and Judge Moore, keep “dropping ” charges, and this is what happens!! Until someone dies and sues the living crap out of your shady system gere
Donnie Riddle says
Hats off again to our new sheriff. He’s right there with his men when a situation arises, sure beats the hell out of a desk warmer don’t it ?
BlueJammers says
Kudos to Sheriff Staly and all officers of FCSO! Thank you for placing your lives on the line to keep us safe!
Not the same as years ago. says
Palm Coast is not like it was 20 years ago! Teens & kids need some things to do. Nothing to do here!
Concerned says
Who is the victim?
Mike Ungaro says
First of all great job by law enforcement! Swift action prevented the general public from further danger. I don’t know about crime statistics in Palm Coast. But I have been coming down from the Northeast for many years. I don’t think this is a wide spread problem. But a message has to be sent loud and clear. Too all current and future felons. And the message should be Palm Coast/Flagler County is not a place you want to get stupid! No slaps on the wrist in our town! Most of these incidents are committed by repeat offenders!
Local 1953 says
Good Job FCSO!
Damn glad I live in Bunnell, we don’t get
this kind of excitement
Anonymous says
“Unfortunately that’s the cost of apprehending dirt bags sometimes. ”
As much as I want to catch the bad guys, and for no officers to get hurt, its still vitally important for the Sheriff to model objective attitudes towards every citizen, in word and deed. “Innocent until proven guilty” has really taken a hit in the last few years of turmoil. We don’t know what happened here for sure, and if this kid (whom I have known for years, and understand some of the awful things that life has thrown his way) is truly guilty, or if it was self defense, etc. He has a mom and a dad, who are amazingly surprised and heartbroken… And friends from church who would never imagine what has apparently happened. Not one would consider this young man a “dirt bag.”
We need to clean up the streets…but in so doing, we must maintain what makes us great – hopeful objectives and attitudes towards all people until they are proven guilty. And heartfelt compassion towards all those who are connected to both of these kids.
Whatever says
Anonymous: one who runs from the police and puts my life and the life of other people in harms way to elude is a dirtbag. We all know he did that. Sorry
Kurt Lazarus says
Everyone’s an angel at 5 years old. Even death row inmates. People make choices in life. Some chose another path. More power to FCSO. Clean up this Wild West town
Young Man Pit says
He’s just a kid. He shouldn’t of done all that running through the town. But people he’s still someone’s son. Let him get his time in court. Let that judge do his work. All the dirt bag this uncalled for. half of you may have a child his age. I got 2 kids and I’m glad no child was injured during his chase. leave it at that it could of been worst really worst.
E.Green
Fatima says
The subject in this horrible situation is my best friend’s son. Everyone is entitled to their opinion but know that this is someone’s child who has a terrible addiction. I also want to add that his parents are heartbroken for their son and for the victim and his family. So before everyone starts casting stones know that Levi’s parents are both firefighters, Christ followers and love their son and community. We should pray more for everyone involved and cast judgement less.
ASF says
More and more, out jails seem to serving as de facto mental health and drug inpatient programs. As a society, we must do better than this.
Anonymous says
We need to pray for these Families both of these kids lives have changed for ever Levi comes from a wonderful family please pray for both……thank you…
Anonymous says
young man pit-he shot someone,nearly killed him….
how could it get any worse than that? let someone die…
dam bleeding heart liberals—I hope they throw the book at him and he goes away for a very long time
Komodo Dragon says
Yeah, we have some delusionals who think we’re like Orlando. We have a new no nonsense Sheriff who is on a mission. We are witnessing the works of his team and seems to stop at nothing to accomplish the goals for our city. This same crap existed before but now we are seeing it as we were kept out of the loop. Rick Staly was totally aware of the bullcrap that was allowed to occur uncontested. Abide by the laws or else.
No Name says
I am sadden with this situation. I have watched Levi grow up his whole life. I did not know his parents. He grew up with my child from middle school to elementary to graduating with him in highschool. Lets just all pray for him his family and the rest of the students of this county.
Komodo Dragon says
John F. P., you couldn’t have said it better. Our new Sheriff understands the problems that are plaguing our beautiful city and he’ll stop at nothing to get the job done. He is our Batman and we all need to support his decisions and actions. I want to live in a city that has earned a reputation of criminals not even thinking of traveling in any of our zip codes or set foot with criminal thoughts. If we all do our part and maintain vigilance in our neighborhoods we can speed up the process. We all know who the drug dealers in the neighborhood are. Watch the activities and when the time is ripe, call to report drug activity and partner with the sheriffs office since they can’t be everywhere. Clean out the drug dealers and crime will drop immensely. Drug addicts commit the most crimes to get a fix. The pawn shops need to be highly regulated and compliant or be shut down. Almost all stolen goods end up at these pawn shops that knowingly buy stolen goods so they promote the theft problem.
Taxpayer says
Nice uniform Rick
Sadie says
@No Name, he is not a student anymore. He is an adult and needs to be punished as an adult. Actions have consequences!
stoptheinsanity says
I agree with Fatima, I knew of this boy when he was in elementary school and his parents were always active in this child’s life. Beautiful family! Addiction is a disease of the mind and if it is not arrested with rehab and treatment then the cycle continues and tragedies like this occur. It’s heartbreaking for both families.. This is becoming rampant and in order to get to the root of it all we need more knowledge of this disease to become widespread in our community.. There are resources out there, we just need them brought out more to the public. Maybe have a townhall meeting and open up these resources to the public. I also believe in a neighborhood watch that the police dept would have to set up.
Born and Raised Here says
I am so tired of hearing the kids have nothing to do here. What more do you want ? You got the beach, surfing, fishing, paddle board, kayaking, golf, tennis, bicycling, and hunting, Take from a guy who grew up here this is paradise,
stoptheinsanity says
So true Born and Raised Here.. What happens to the addicts mind is it gets filled with AOD (Alcohol and Drugs) in place of all these other pleasures(family, life, job, fun) that nothing else matters but where they will get their next fix. The community needs to educate themselves on this so that they are understanding that addiction is not something that someone snaps out of. It’s a process that takes years to undo and families and friends need to be on board with obtaining knowledge. Knowledge is power!
Dave says
The sheriff speaks snidely, and uses judgemental derogatory terms towards individuals involved in the case. This is unprofessional and a slippery slope. The sheriff should instead try to understand what is happening instead of throwing around derogatory statements which could lead to problems down the road. Be professional and educate yourself on mental illness
Legalgirl01 says
I agree…thank you. Mental illness and self medicating go hand in hand. He obviously doesn’t understand and instead just makes rude comments.
Scion says
I sat next to Levi in Kindergarten and we were best buds for a long time. We had sleep overs at each others houses, went to each others birthday parties, all of that stuff. Our relationship faded away later in High School once he started letting his habits get the best of him. He was a good kid. But he’s been on the wrong path for a while. Reading this and other articles about this case, it definitely seems as if an overall opinion of Levi has been painted before we’ve figured out the whole situation. I’m not saying he’s innocent. There’s no denying that what he did was wrong. But he’s not just a mindless junkie. He’s a real person with a family and he has his own angels and demons. We definitely need to answer the questions “Why were Marco and Levi together in the first place?” and “What happened in the moments that lead up to the shooting?” Again, I’m not saying he’s innocent, but letting one news article put together an opinion for us when we don’t yet have the full story isn’t fair. There are details we don’t know yet, and we should find out what the missing pieces are before we make judgements.