OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office is releasing updated information regarding a tragic shooting incident that occurred on Sunday, July 28, 2025, in the 2800 block of SE 47th Terrace.

At approximately 1:35 p.m., deputies responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and a man dressed in black running with a rifle through a residential area. Additional reports indicated that two individuals had been shot.

Deputies quickly arrived on scene, located the suspect, and issued repeated verbal commands to drop the weapon. The suspect, identified as Paul Scott Wier, 51, of 2821 SE 47th Terrace, refused to comply and opened fire on deputies. Deputies returned fire, striking and incapacitating him.

Deputies immediately rendered first aid until Okeechobee County Fire Rescue arrived. Wier was airlifted to Lawnwood Regional Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.

Tragically, the two victims were pronounced deceased at the scene by medical personnel.  Their identities are not being released, in accordance with Marsy’s Law, which protects the rights and privacy of crime victims and their families.

The investigation into the motive for this violent act remains ongoing. At this time, no clear motive has been identified. Wier had no recent involvement with local law enforcement, but records from Palm Beach County show a criminal history, including:

• 2003 – Possession of Heroin (F.S. 893.13(6)(c)); Convicted; sentenced to 1 year, 6 months, and 18 days in state prison
• 2004 – Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon (F.S. 784.045(1)(a)2); 2004 – Grand Theft (F.S. 812.014(2)(c)6). Both charges stemmed from the same incident and resulted in an acquittal by reason of insanity.
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(Photo was taken in 2003)

Neighbors reported no prior disturbances, known conflicts, or unusual behavior from Wier prior to the incident.

Deputies involved in the shooting were placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol during officer-involved shooting investigations. The case remains active and ongoing, with assistance from state investigative partners.

“This was a shocking and senseless act that has left families grieving and our community shaken,” said Sheriff Noel E. Stephen. “Our deputies responded with professionalism and courage under fire. We remain focused on supporting the victims’ families and bringing clarity to this investigation.”

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office at 863-763-3117.

Editor's note:

On Monday, July 28, J.M. McBeath Funeral Home posted an obituary notice for Purvin and Debbie Evans:

“Purvin Evans, a respected member of the Fort Pierce community, and his wife, Debbie Evans, were tragically killed in a targeted shooting on Sunday, July 27, 2025, while sitting peacefully on their front porch in Okeechobee, Florida.

“The couple, known for their decades of hard work and dedication, was gunned down in the Brindaban Forest subdivision, a quiet retreat they frequented from their primary home in Fort Pierce. The tragic incident unfolded in the afternoon, with law enforcement responding to a call about gunfire at approximately 1:35 p.m.

“Purvin Evans, well-known for his career in stucco construction, and his wife were described as ‘beautiful souls’ by a grieving relative, who shared their heartfelt condolences on social media. ‘Fort Pierce lost two beautiful souls,’ the post read, as the community mourns their sudden loss.”