AVON PARK, FL — A 19-year-old Avon Park resident has been arrested and charged with attempted first-degree homicide in connection with a shooting that occurred on December 1, 2025, during the night of the Avon Park Christmas Parade.
The incident left a 16-year-old victim in critical condition. Authorities have stated that the shooting was not related to a separate brawl that took place during the parade.
Joseph Devon White faces the attempted first-degree homicide charge, along with additional charges of improper exhibition of a firearm and firing a weapon in public stemming from the shooting.
During the same arrest, White was also charged with two counts of grand theft auto related to his involvement in two vehicle thefts from the Sun ‘n Lake of Sebring community on February 25, 2026.
Further charges against White include two counts of selling drugs, possession of drug equipment, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, based on evidence uncovered during the investigation into the vehicle thefts.
Investigations into the shooting, the vehicle thefts, and several car burglaries that occurred in the Sun ‘n Lake area on February 25 remain ongoing.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office at 863-402-7250 or email detectives@highlandssheriff.org. Anonymous tips can be submitted via the HCSO app, Heartland Crime Stoppers’ P3tips app, by calling 1-888-400-TIPS (8477), dialing **TIPS on a cell phone, or visiting www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and selecting the “Submit A Tip” button. Tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.
SOURCE: HIGHLANDS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
