INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — An Indian River County Grand Jury has indicted on a murder charge the man authorities believe shot and killed his brother last month in the Aerodome community.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, 39-year-old Mark Deffendall shot and killed his brother, Eric, during an argument on Oct. 19.
Deffendall faces a first degree murder charge.
Oct. 20, 6 a.m.
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — A suspect in Sunday’s fatal shooting in Aerodome has been arrested, according to the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office.
Mark Deffendall, 39, faces a charge of Felony First Degree Murder of his brother Eric Deffendall, according to authorities.
“It appears the fight continued into the residence, both upstairs and down,” said Det. Lt. Anthony Consalo. “The fight ended near the front door with numerous gunshots to the head and body of Eric Deffendall.”
Mark Deffendall was later located at Indian River Medical Center where he was treated for several superficial wounds, according to the Sheriff’s Office. He was transported to the Sheriff’s Office where detectives spent several hours speaking with him.
Deffendall is currently being held at the Indian River County Jail without bail.
Oct. 19, 8:17 p.m.
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim of a fatal shooting and a person of interest, both of whom are brothers and live together with their father in the Aerodome community.
According to local media reports, Eric Deffendall was shot dead inside the family’s home on De Havilland Court Sunday.
His brother, Mark Deffendall, has been identified as a person of interest. Reports state that Mark Deffendall was located at the Indian River Medical Center with injuries consistent with a physical altercation.
Authorities told local media that Eric Deffendall was discovered by his father, Rex Deffendall, and was found to have four gunshot wounds to his body.
No motive for the shooting has been released.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
Oct. 19 4:12 p.m.
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a suspicious death that happened in the 8500 block of De Havilland Court, according to authorities.
De Havilland Court is in the area commonly referred to as the Aerodrome, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Anyone with information or who may have witnessed anything is encouraged to contact Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-800-273-TIPS (8477). By contacting Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers, you can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.
This article will be updated when more information becomes available.