Orlando police arrest 2 in killings of nonprofit worker, woman

ORLANDO, Fla. — Two men have been arrested in connection with the killings of a nonprofit worker and an Orlando woman.

Both were innocent bystanders when police said two men opened fire in Parramore.

Orlando police announced Friday that they’ve arrested Christopher Miller, 24, and Lavon Shinn, 24 for the killings of Gino Nicolas and Tanya Skeen.

The suspects face two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Nicolas and Skeen, who were shot on April 16 on Conley Street in Parramore. The suspects also face six counts of attempted first-degree murder and four counts of aggravated battery with a firearm.

Police said the suspects were involved in a fight at an Orlando nightclub that somehow carried over into the Parramore neighborhood, where police said Miller and Shinn shot into a crowd of people.

Skeen, 46, was a mother of three and was putting away groceries when stray bullets struck her inside the apartment.

“There’s a little boy that’s 8 years old and a daughter in her 20s who have to carry on without their mother,” said Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill.

Nicolas, 24, worked as the coordinator of the City of Orlando’s My Brother’s Keeper program, which helps the city’s most at-risk youth. He was a youth mentor and considered a hero among many in the community.

“Two truly innocent (people) were killed in this one,” said Chief John Mina.

Police said the community came forward with tips that led to the arrests, in addition to police investigation.

Detectives applauded the fact that witnesses spoke to help crack the case.

“They called, even if they call anonymously, they called. They wanted these guys caught,” said Detective Teresa Sprague.

Nicolas’ sister said an arrest is just the beginning.

“Although it doesn’t bring my brother back, we’re happy to know we can move forward to bringing to my family,” said Mylaine Nicolas.

Shinn is being held in the Seminole County Jail on unrelated felony aggravated assault and weapons charges.

Miller was picked up by the Orlando Police Fugitive Unit and was booked into the Orange County Jail on murder, attempted murder and aggravated battery charges.

Both men have a history of violent crimes that include assault, sexual assault, theft of firearms and burglary.

Cox Media Group