LINCOLN HEIGHTS, FL _ On August 10, 2021, Levy County Sheriff’s Office Deputies, Detectives and Crime Scene personnel responded to a reported shooting in the East Williston subdivision of Lincoln Heights. LCSO was assisted by Williston Police Officers and Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies, K-9’s and their Aviation Unit. During the initial 911 calls, the call takers were able to hear gunfire in the background.
When deputies arrived, they found one armed subject standing on a vacant lot besides two vehicles. This subject was detained and identified as John Colton Barley (11-13-97.) His firearm was seized as evidence.
Deputies learned that two other individuals were involved in the shooting and they had already fled on foot. A perimeter was put in place and the search began by both air and on the ground. Deputies located Kadaryl Leon Cannady (10-6-1998) hiding in an outbuilding approximately one quarter of a mile south of the original shooting scene. Cannady was suffering from a gunshot wound to his arm. The third suspect was not located.
After an extensive investigation, CID Detectives believe they have a good picture of what occurred during the shooting. They recovered a significant amount of physical evidence which included firearms, ammunition, spent casings, blood and illegal drugs. The evidence indicates that a significant number of rounds were fired during the incident. They also received statements from witnesses, two suspects and recovered digital evidence.
Detectives believe that Cannady, Gerald Renard Coleman (1-10-99) and Barley arranged to conduct an illegal drug deal via social media. The trio arranged to meet at the vacant lot in Lincoln Heights to conduct the exchange. During the meeting, Cannady and Coleman attempted to rob Barley. A physical struggle over one of the firearms occurred and a shot was fired inside Barley’s vehicle. Coleman and Cannady fled on foot and Barley fired at them. Cannady was wounded as he ran away.
Cannady was transported to the hospital and released. He is being held at the Levy County Detention Center on a charge of Armed Robbery. Cannady’s bond is set at $250,000.00.
LCSO Detectives arrested Barley on August 13, 2021. He is charged with Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault and Firing a Weapon in Public. He has not received his first appearance hearing and has no bond at this time.
The investigation into Coleman’s role in the incident is continuing. Detectives want to locate and question him in order to get his side of the story.
Sheriff McCallum stated that he was very glad that no innocent bystanders were struck by the gunfire. He encourages any citizens who may have information regarding illegal drug activity, and especially Coleman’s location, are asked to contact LCSO at 352-486-5111 or 911. Reports can also be made anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 1-877-349-8477.