Police announce that Devonte Duga will not be charged in the shooting death of Furious Bernard Shell outside the Family Discount Supermarket.

HAINES CITY — The Haines City Police Department will not charge a man involved in a fatal shooting following a dispute Sunday.

In a news release, Police Chief Jim Elensky said no charges will be filed against 25-year-old Devonte Duga, who acted in self-defense in the shooting death of Furious Bernard Shell, 26, outside the Family Discount Supermarket.

“This is a truly unfortunate event,” Elensky said. “Our thoughts are with all of those involved and their families.”

Duga fatally shot Shell outside the grocery store at 1604 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way about 3:15 p.m. Sunday. The shooting stemmed from an incident in which Shell allegedly stole another man’s wallet inside the business, known locally as "The Cuban Store."

In the release, Haines City Police detail how Shell was confronted by both the man and a store employee following the alleged theft and began making threats. Duga also was in the store and began a verbal argument with Shell in defense of the employee.

The argument escalated outside the business with Shell threatening to kill Duga while showing a handgun. Duga attempted to go back inside the store, but Shell blocked the door and pushed Duga.

Police say Shell then struck Duga twice in the head with the gun and a struggle for the weapon followed. Duga was able to take the gun from Shell and fired four times, striking Shell with each of the shots.

Both men were taken to Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center in Davenport. Shell was pronounced dead less than an hour later at 4:13 p.m. Duga was treated for injuries and released.

Elensky noted that Duga cooperated throughout the investigation and gave statements, including that he was in fear for his life, consistent with witness accounts and limited surveillance footage. While there are no charges currently being filed, the investigation is ongoing.

“Our relationship with this community is something that is very important to us,” Elensky said. “We implore anyone that may have any additional information about this case to please come forward.”