Florida Teen Burger King Employee and Aspiring Marine Shot Dead While Trying to Break Up Fight Between Customers, Police Say
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA — An 18-year-old Burger King employee who had plans to join the U.S. Marines was shot and killed Saturday night after attempting to break up a fight between two customers at the restaurant where he worked, according to investigators. The shooting left one man dead and another injured at the Burger King on Blanding Road near Collins Road.
Police Say Fight Between Two Men Escalated Moments Before Shots Were Fired
Deputies with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office responded around 8:40 p.m. after multiple callers reported a shooting inside the fast-food restaurant. Officers arrived to find two men with gunshot wounds — the teen employee, Matthew Jackson, and a 33-year-old man who survived after being rushed to a hospital.
Witnesses directed officers to 28-year-old Dawud Burritt, who was arrested the following day. He now faces charges of second-degree murder, attempted murder, and burglary.
According to detectives, the surviving victim told officers that he and Burritt had been friends for almost ten years but experienced a falling-out about a year earlier. When Burritt entered the restaurant on Saturday, the surviving victim reportedly tried to shake his hand to make peace. Burritt refused, and the argument escalated into a physical fight.
Employee Stepped In to Stop the Fight Before Suspect Allegedly Opened Fire
Investigators said that Jackson, who was working near the front of the restaurant, attempted to intervene and pull the two men apart. During the altercation, Burritt allegedly pulled out a firearm, prompting customers and employees to scatter.
Witnesses reported hearing two gunshots. Officers found Jackson fatally wounded near the drive-thru window, while the surviving victim was discovered injured near the back of the building.
Detectives said the suspect fled but was quickly identified by those at the scene, leading to his arrest the following morning.
Family Remembers Teen as a “Protector” Preparing to Join the Marines
Jackson’s mother, Natasha Jackson, created an online fundraiser in the days following her son’s death. In her message, she described him as a young man with a deep sense of responsibility and kindness.
“Matthew was not just my child — he was a light, a protector, and a soul who brought warmth into every room he entered,” she wrote.
“He cared deeply for the people around him, always showing up in the biggest and smallest ways.”
The family said Jackson had dreamed of joining the Marines after graduating high school, calling the career path “a reflection of his courage, discipline, and his natural instinct to protect others.”
He was also described as a talented cook who loved sharing meals with those around him.
Suspect Held Without Bond as Investigation Continues
Burritt is currently being held at the Duval County Jail without bond. His next court date is scheduled for December 16, where prosecutors are expected to present additional details from the investigation, including witness statements and surveillance evidence.
Authorities continue to review the events leading up to the shooting and the long-term conflict between Burritt and the surviving victim.
As the Jacksonville community mourns the loss of a young man preparing to serve his country, investigators continue working to bring clarity and justice in this tragic case. For ongoing updates on major criminal investigations, public safety, and breaking news across the nation, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.