OKEECHOBEE, FL — Tragedy Strikes Brindaban Forest Subdivision as Purvin and Debbie Evans Fatally Shot on Their Front Porch
Okeechobee, FL — A quiet and peaceful Sunday afternoon turned into an unthinkable scene of violence in the normally tranquil Brindaban Forest subdivision of Okeechobee. Longtime residents Purvin Evans and his wife, Debbie Evans, were senselessly and fatally shot while sitting together on their front porch — a place where they had spent countless hours enjoying the sunshine and the company of neighbors.
The double homicide has stunned the tight-knit community, where acts of violence are rare, and the couple was widely known and deeply loved.
The Shooting
According to the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office, the tragic incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. on Sunday, when deputies received multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire on Sandlewood Drive in the Brindaban Forest neighborhood. Responding officers arrived to find both victims suffering from gunshot wounds on their front porch. Despite the best efforts of first responders and paramedics, Purvin Evans, 72, and Debbie Evans, 69, were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses told investigators that the couple had been seated in their usual chairs, sipping iced tea and talking — a weekend ritual they rarely missed — when the gunshots rang out. Neighbors reported hearing multiple rounds fired in quick succession. Some residents initially mistook the noise for fireworks until screams followed.
Details surrounding the shooter and the motive remain unclear as of Monday morning, though investigators are actively pursuing leads and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes. No arrests have yet been made, and the sheriff’s office is urging anyone with information to come forward.
Community in Shock
The Brindaban Forest community, a serene residential area in Okeechobee County filled with retirees, families, and longtime homeowners, is reeling in the wake of the senseless act. The Evanses were described by neighbors as “salt of the earth” — kind, generous, and always ready with a wave or warm smile.
“They were the kind of people who made this neighborhood feel like home,” said neighbor and friend Caroline Mendez. “You’d see them on the porch every evening. Always together. Always welcoming.”
Purvin, a retired mechanic known for helping neighbors with car repairs and yard work, had lived in Okeechobee for over 40 years. Debbie, a former school librarian, volunteered at the local library and frequently organized food drives and holiday events for local families.
“They were pillars in this community,” said Pastor Joel Franklin of Grace Fellowship Church, where the couple attended regularly. “Their faith, their love for each other, and their dedication to serving others left a mark on everyone they knew.”
Investigation Ongoing
Sheriff Noel Stephen confirmed that the sheriff’s department is treating the case as a double homicide and has assembled a task force of investigators and crime scene analysts to work around the clock. Authorities have not released information about possible suspects or motives but confirmed that this was not a random act of violence and that the public is not believed to be in immediate danger.
Investigators are combing through nearby security camera footage, interviewing witnesses, and tracking down any vehicles or persons of interest that may have been seen in the area at the time of the shooting.
“We understand the fear and the anger the community is feeling,” said Sheriff Stephen during a Monday press conference. “Let me be clear — we will not rest until the person or persons responsible are brought to justice. Purvin and Debbie Evans deserve that. Their family deserves that. This entire county deserves that.”
Family and Funeral Plans
The Evanses leave behind three adult children and seven grandchildren, all of whom have asked for privacy as they grieve. In a brief family statement shared with local media, the Evans family said:
“We are devastated beyond words. Our parents were kind, humble, and good-hearted people who would never harm a soul. That they were taken from us in such a horrific and senseless way is almost too much to bear. We thank the community for their love and support during this incredibly painful time.”
Funeral arrangements are currently being made, with plans for a public memorial service to be held later in the week at Grace Fellowship Church.
A Call for Justice
As neighbors continue to place flowers, candles, and notes of condolence outside the Evanses’ home, a growing sense of urgency is building within the community. Residents are calling not only for justice but also for renewed focus on neighborhood safety and mental health support in rural communities.
“We can’t let this just be another story on the news,” said local resident Martin Whitmore. “Purvin and Debbie meant something to all of us. We owe it to them to make sure this never happens again — here or anywhere.”
A community vigil is being organized for Wednesday evening at a nearby park, where friends and neighbors will gather to remember the Evanses and stand united in their call for answers.
How You Can Help
The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area around the time of the shooting — including vehicles, individuals, or strange activity — to contact their tip line at (863) 763-3117. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Okeechobee County.
As the investigation unfolds, the hearts of the Okeechobee community remain with the Evans family, and with all those impacted by this devastating act of violence. The loss of Purvin and Debbie Evans has left a hole that will not easily be filled — but the love, unity, and resolve of their community remain strong in their memory.
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