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Police: Surveillance video may lead to arrest of gunman who shot, killed Cocoa father

COCOA, Fla. — A 31-year-old Cocoa man was shot to death Wednesday morning after walking his son to the bus stop, the Cocoa Police Department said.

According to witnesses, the victim had just walked his son to the bus stop on Fern Street, and as he walked back home north on Fiske Boulevard, an unknown person began arguing with him and then fired multiple shots, hitting the victim.

Cocoa police are reviewing surveillance video that they said captured the shooting.

The shooter, who was riding a bicycle, fled the area, witnesses told investigators.

“Gunshots. Two shots then three,” said neighbor James Jewell. “I hope they burn whoever it is. Yes ma'am.”

The victim, Walter Thomas, was able to make it back to his home in the 1000 block of Grove Street, where family members called 911 at about 7 a.m., police said.

“He was a good man. A hard worker. He loved to cut grass, he loved his kids. He was a good person,” said friend Felicity Jenkins.

A family friend said Thomas told his fiancé to get the children out of house, and by the time police arrived, he was unconscious.

“He made it in the house just in time to say, ‘Get the kids out the house.’ She put them out the window because she thought whoever did it was coming in the house,” said Jenkins.

Thomas was taken to the hospital, where he died.

“It's very difficult. I'm praying for my aunt right now. She's a very strong woman. So, I know it's going to take time though,” Jenkins said.

Friends said Thomas was a hard worker who made time for his children.

“Well, it's unfortunate there were several children at the scene. Whatever the reason, whatever argument, it didn't have to end this way. Hopefully, we'll get some closure and bring justice to the victim and the family,” said Yvonne Martinez of the Cocoa Police Department.

Residents in the neighborhood said they hope more witnesses speak up so the case doesn’t join the current 23 cold cases in Cocoa.

Police said they are working several solid leads and watching video of the incident that was captured by area surveillance cameras.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Central Florida Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS.