A deadly apartment fire that broke out Monday afternoon in Gainesville has led to a homicide investigation after authorities discovered a man shot dead inside the burned unit.
The incident occurred at The Commons Apartments, located on Southwest 16th Street, just a few blocks from the University of Florida. Gainesville Fire Rescue crews responded to the blaze around 1 p.m. on June 2, 2025, and quickly entered the building to extinguish the flames. While working to control the fire, firefighters found the body of a man who had apparently suffered a gunshot wound.
A firearm was also recovered from the scene, which is now part of an ongoing investigation being jointly handled by the Gainesville Police Department (GPD) and the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Officials confirmed that the fire and shooting are being treated as part of the same investigation, although no suspects have been named as of Tuesday morning.
“At this time, we believe this was an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to the public,” said a GPD spokesperson in a statement released late Monday evening.
The identity of the victim has not been officially disclosed, pending notification of next of kin. However, neighbors reported that the man was in his mid-30s and had been living at the apartment for some time.
Red Cross Assisting Displaced Resident
A second man who lived in the apartment, along with his dog, managed to escape the fire and is now receiving help from the American Red Cross. He was not injured during the incident. Volunteers are assisting with temporary accommodations and basic needs.
“The Red Cross is committed to supporting individuals affected by home fires, and we’re providing shelter and support as needed,” said a representative from the North Florida Region chapter.
Residents at The Commons have expressed concern about what they describe as a recent increase in crime in the area. Some have even stated they no longer feel safe living in the complex.
“There have been break-ins and people wandering the halls at night. Now a shooting? It’s really shaken us,” said Tasha Green, a tenant who has lived at the apartment complex for over a year.
Community Safety Concerns Grow
The incident has reignited discussions about security in Gainesville’s apartment complexes, particularly those near college campuses. The Commons Apartments is popular with students and young professionals due to its proximity to UF, but some tenants now say it’s time for more visible safety measures.
Local officials are urging residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. Those with any information about the fire or the shooting are encouraged to contact the Gainesville Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office are both expected to continue supporting the investigation. Updates will be provided as forensic results and witness testimonies come in.
Scene and Emergency Response
Photos and video footage from the scene show heavy black smoke pouring from one of the apartment units as firefighters worked rapidly to put out the blaze. Police cordoned off the area and kept bystanders back as forensic teams and investigators entered the building.
Neighbors stood outside in shock, some visibly shaken, as they watched emergency responders move in and out of the apartment. Officials remained at the scene for hours, collecting evidence and interviewing residents.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and investigators are working to figure out whether it was intentionally set to cover up the shooting or if it occurred after the incident.
Authorities have not released information on whether surveillance cameras captured any footage of the crime, although residents say the building has had spotty security in the past.
