On Saturday, July 5 at 2:30 a.m., Columbia County Sheriff’s Office responded to a shooting at Elks Lodge at 1688 NE Washington Street in Lake City.
The initial investigation revealed an argument between two unknown females and a single male, Robert Church, 29 began inside the Elks Lodge at closing. The on-site security guard attempted to separate the parties involved and escort them outside. Once outside, Robert fell to the ground during a struggle. Robert then reportedly went to a vehicle in the parking lot, retrieved a handgun and returned. He shot the security guard once and fled the area.
The security guard was transported to Shands at UF Hospital by Lifeguard ambulance, where his condition is currently unknown. The bullet that passed through the guard, struck a female bystander and she was taken by her husband to Lake Shore Hospital where she was later transferred to Shands at UF Hospital.
Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit arrived and processed the scene as deputies and detectives interviewed witnesses. The investigation continues.
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office has issued a BOLO for Robert Church and is actively seeking his location. If anyone has information on Robert’s whereabouts or this shooting, contact the Sheriff’s Office at 386-719-2005 or Crime Stoppers of Columbia County Inc. at 386-754-7099
Robert Dell Church 29 years old 5’10 235
daylight view of scene
