WINTER HAVEN, Fla. -- The family of a 21-year-old Winter Haven man who was shot to death while in bed in September is appealing for anyone with information to step forward.
Darnell Powell was asleep in his bed early Sept. 29 at his home in the 500 block of Avenue V NE when he was shot. The gunfire apparently came through a window.
Police said it did not appear to be a random act.
Thursday, police Chief Charlie Bird said detectives have been working on the case every day, but they need help from the public. He said people may have seen something or know something, but "don't even realize they have possibly a piece of the puzzle that will help us put it together."
He was joined at the news conference by Powell's relatives, including his mother, brother, grandparents and aunts.
His mother Darnya Parker-Barber called for anyone with information to call police. She said her son was "more identified by his smile. He sings a lot. He loves church."
"He's had the same struggles all of us had transitioning from ... a young adult to an adult. ... But he doesn't have enemies. He's not hated. He's a well-loved kid," she said.
His grandfather Clyde Edwards told whoever is responsible to step forward because Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd will find them.
"The best thing you can do is come on forth, make it easy on yourself. Because Grady will get you. You better believe that. I believe it."
Anyone with information is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477). Anonymity is guaranteed and callers could be eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000.
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