Simpson Found Guilty of Attempted Second-Degree Murder, Illegally Possessing Firearm

State Attorney Melissa Nelson announces that Willie Simpson was found guilty by a jury of Attempted Second-Degree Murder and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Simpson, a Habitual Offender, now faces up to life in Florida State Prison. The Honorable Tatiana Salvador will sentence Simpson the week of March 28, 2022.

On April 24, 2020, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office patrol officers responded to an Edgewood Avenue shopping center that contained an ATM in reference to a person shot. The victim soon after arrived at a local hospital and provided law enforcement a description of the man who shot him as well as the make, color, model, and distinguishing rust feature of the shooter’s vehicle. Surveillance footage confirmed the victim’s statements and description of the shooter and his car — it also provided a tag number. The investigation revealed the car belonged to Simpson, who confirmed he was the owner and sole driver. Simpson also matched the distinct physical description of the shooter and the victim identified him from a photographic lineup. Simpson, a multiple time felon, was unable to legally possess a firearm.

The case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Lauren Randall.