Dustin Rose and Samson Campbell DeLand, Florida Obituary-Death: Childhood Friends Fatally Shot in Double Homicide

DELAND, Florida — The DeLand community is mourning the heartbreaking deaths of Dustin Rose and Samson Campbell, two lifelong friends whose lives were tragically cut short in a double homicide on the night of Wednesday, July 29, 2026. Their deaths have left family members, friends, classmates, and community members searching for answers as investigators continue working to determine what led to the fatal shooting.

Authorities say the two young men were found with multiple gunshot wounds at a vacant industrial property, prompting an ongoing homicide investigation by the DeLand Police Department.

Double Homicide Under Investigation

According to the DeLand Police Department, officers responded at approximately 10:40 p.m. to reports of a shooting at an unused industrial property located at 213 West New York Avenue.

When officers arrived, they discovered 19-year-old Dustin Rose and Samson Campbell suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel immediately attempted lifesaving measures, but both men were pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 10:48 p.m.

Detectives with the department’s Criminal Investigation Division have launched an extensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the double homicide.

Remembering Dustin Rose

Dustin Rose was remembered as a disciplined, ambitious, and service-oriented young man who had dedicated himself to both his education and military service.

Originally from DeLeon Springs, Florida, Dustin had recently enrolled at The Citadel in South Carolina, where he was pursuing his education while also serving as a member of the South Carolina Army National Guard.

Friends and family describe him as someone who embraced responsibility, valued hard work, and was committed to building a meaningful future. His dedication to serving his country earned the respect of classmates, fellow service members, and everyone who knew him.

His death has deeply affected both his hometown community and those within the military community who admired his commitment and character.

Remembering Samson Campbell

Samson Campbell is remembered as a loyal friend whose life was equally filled with promise.

Investigators confirmed that Dustin and Samson had been childhood friends who recently reunited while Dustin was visiting home. Campbell had reportedly relocated to Chicago before returning to spend time with longtime friends in Florida.

Those who knew Samson remember him for his friendship, kindness, and the close bonds he maintained with the people who grew up alongside him.

His sudden death has left loved ones mourning the loss of a young man whose life ended far too soon.

Investigation Remains Active

Police initially addressed inaccurate social media reports claiming the shooting occurred directly behind the historic Athens Theatre.

Investigators clarified that the incident actually took place on a separate, vacant industrial property adjacent to an abandoned trailer, not at the theater itself.

DeLand Police Chief Jason Umberger expressed condolences to both families, describing the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy for the community.

At this time, investigators have not announced any arrests or identified potential suspects. Authorities have also stated there is no known ongoing threat to the public.

Detectives continue reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working to establish a complete timeline of the events leading up to the shooting.

Anyone who may have seen Dustin Rose or Samson Campbell on Tuesday or Wednesday evening or who has information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the DeLand Police Department.

Community Mourns Two Young Lives

The deaths of Dustin Rose and Samson Campbell have sent shockwaves throughout DeLand, DeLeon Springs, and beyond.

Family members, friends, classmates, fellow soldiers, and community members continue sharing heartfelt tributes celebrating two young men whose futures were filled with promise.

As loved ones gather to remember Dustin and Samson, they hope their lives will be remembered not for the violence that claimed them but for the friendships they built, the lives they touched, and the memories they created with those who loved them.

Funeral and memorial service arrangements have not yet been publicly announced by either family.

Dustin Rose and Samson Campbell Obituary – Frequently Asked Questions

Who were Dustin Rose and Samson Campbell?

Dustin Rose was a 19-year-old student at The Citadel and a member of the South Carolina Army National Guard. Samson Campbell was his lifelong childhood friend. Both were fatally shot in DeLand, Florida.

What happened to Dustin Rose and Samson Campbell?

The two men died after suffering multiple gunshot wounds at a vacant industrial property on West New York Avenue in DeLand on July 29, 2026.

Has anyone been arrested?

As of this writing, authorities have not announced any arrests or identified suspects. The investigation remains active.

Is there an ongoing threat to the public?

According to the DeLand Police Department, investigators do not believe there is an active threat to the general public at this time.