Full Breakdown
Florida Woman Rescues Double Homicide Suspect from Ocean
4/6/2026, 11:47:36 PM
Rescue Incident Details
On March 24, 2026, a woman named Belinda was walking near Riomar Beach in Vero Beach, Florida, when she heard a man, later identified as 64-year-old Jesse Ellis, screaming for help from the ocean. Belinda entered the water and instructed Ellis to float on his back to be carried to shore. After successfully rescuing him, she learned that Ellis was the primary suspect in the fatal shootings of his estranged wife, Stacie Mason, and her romantic partner, Danny Ooley. Both victims were employees of the Indian River County Public Works Department.
Background of the Homicide
The shootings occurred around 7 a.m. on the same day in a parking lot near the Indian River County Public Library. Vero Beach Police Chief David Currey characterized the incident as a “crime of passion,” noting that Mason and Ooley were believed to be in a relationship while Mason was in the process of separating from Ellis. Following the shootings, police located a vehicle linked to Ellis at South Beach Park, and emergency services responded to reports of a man entering the ocean fully clothed.
Belinda's Perspective
Belinda, unaware of Ellis's identity or the allegations against him at the time of the rescue, expressed her belief that she would have acted the same way regardless of his status. “I could not leave him in the water no matter what,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of compassion. After learning about the situation, she mentioned she would have called 911 immediately had she known.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Concerns
As of now, Jesse Ellis remains at large, with police urging the public not to approach him. Authorities continue to investigate the double homicide and are seeking information regarding Ellis’s whereabouts.
Official Statements
Vero Beach Police Chief David Currey described the incident as a “crime of passion,” highlighting the complexities of the relationships involved. The police have released video footage showing Belinda assisting Ellis after he reached the shore, further complicating the narrative surrounding the rescue.
Criticism & Opposition
While Belinda's actions have been praised, there are concerns regarding public safety and the implications of unknowingly aiding a suspect in a violent crime. Critics argue that individuals should be more aware of their surroundings and the potential dangers involved in such rescues.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are no significant conflicting reports regarding the rescue incident itself; however, the details surrounding the motivations for the shootings and Ellis's current whereabouts remain unclear. The investigation is ongoing, and police have not yet apprehended Ellis.
What's Next
Authorities are continuing their search for Jesse Ellis and are encouraging anyone with information to contact 911. The investigation into the double homicide is also ongoing, with updates expected as new information becomes available.
