VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Two schools in Volusia County were placed on lockdown Friday afternoon while deputies searched an area for man considered a person of interest in a homicide.
Southwestern Middle and Starke Elementary schools in DeLand were on lockdown.
Deputies found Willie Singleton hiding in a home in the area of Delaware and Beresford avenues. He surrendered to deputies.
"Just before we lobbed the tear gas in the apartment, he got up into the attic, broke through into the next apartment, dropped down and came out and surrendered," said Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood.
Deputies said Singleton might know information surrounding the death of Andre Overstreet, who was killed Feb. 5 at a home on Bay and Julia streets.
DeLand police said students will released at the normal time at 3:05 p.m. Students who ride the bus and are normally picked up by parents will be released on the north side of the campus.
Singleton had a warrant for his arrest for aggravated assault with a firearm and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
"The whole neighborhood knew he was there, he was wanted, and they didn't lift a finger to help us. I am going to tell you, it takes one phone call and we got one phone call," Chitwood said.
#Breaking: Deputies stsging in Beresford. Swat team has eyes on a building. #WFTV pic.twitter.com/GSBal9J0mr
— Jeff Levkulich (@jlevkulichWFTV) February 23, 2018
VIDEO: Willie Singleton Jr. was taken into custody today in DeLand after an extended standoff that prompted lockdowns at two nearby schools. Singleton was wanted for questioning related to a homicide case in New Smyrna Beach & on gun charges. pic.twitter.com/3r0KXcQTJJ
— Volusia Sheriff (@VolusiaSheriff) February 23, 2018
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