19-year-old killed in Downtown Melbourne shooting, suspect in custody, officials say
College football player home for summer break killed in downtown Melbourne shooting
A 19-year-old man is dead and another has been charged with manslaughter following a shooting early Sunday morning in downtown Melbourne, police said. The victim, Nathaniel Bernard Jennings, who was attending the University of Northwestern - St. Paul, a Christian university located in Minnesota, was home in Palm Bay for summer break. He was a defensive lineman on the schools football team. FOX 35's Caroline Coles spoke with Jennings mother.
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. - A 19-year-old man is dead and another has been charged with manslaughter following a shooting early Sunday morning in downtown Melbourne, police said.
19-year-old killed in Downtown Melbourne shooting, suspect in custody, officials say
A 19-year-old man is dead and another has been charged with manslaughter following a shooting early Sunday morning in downtown Melbourne, police said.
Victim and suspect identified
What we know:
Officers responded around 1:51 a.m. to the area of Vernon Place and East New Haven Avenue after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they found a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died.
The victim was identified as Nathaniel Bernard Jennings, 19, of Palm Bay. According to city officials, Jennings was visiting from out of state and had family in the area. Jennings was attending the University of Northwestern - St. Paul, a Christian university located in Minnesota. He was a defensive lineman on the schools football team.
Victim - Nate Jennings | Credit: UNW athletics website
Preliminary findings indicate that Jennings and the suspect were involved in a verbal altercation prior to the shooting. Melbourne police said one individual was taken into custody at the scene and initially claimed self-defense.
Following further investigation, detectives identified the suspect as Stephan Dieujuste and developed probable cause for his arrest. Dieujuste was formally charged with manslaughter and booked into the Brevard County Jail Complex.
Suspect - Stephan Dieujuste
Authorities said the city’s surveillance camera system captured portions of the incident, aiding in the investigation.
The University of Northwestern responds
What they're saying:
The head football coach at the University of Northwestern released a statement regarding the death of Nate Jennings:
"Nate was a treasured member of our football team, being honored with all-conference accolades following his first year of collegiate competition. For as talented as Nate was on the football field, he was an even better person off of it. His contagious energy and positivity will be missed. We are praying for Nate’s mother Autumn, brother Isaiah, and other members of his extended family during this difficult time", UNW Head Football Coach Matt Moore said.
Judge sets no bond
What's next:
On Monday, during Dieujuste's first appearance, the judge set no bond. His next court date is scheduled for June 5.
Police continue to interview witnesses and urge anyone with additional information to contact the Melbourne Police Department.
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The Source: This information came from a Melbourne Police Department press release and a statement provided by Melbourne Mayor Paul Alfrey on May 11, 2025.