by Crescent City, FL – A tragic and senseless act of violence occurred in Crescent City, Florida when a 54-year-old man fatally stabbed a woman outside a Dollar General store for no apparent reason. The victim, 36-year-old Cheyenne Kastens, died after being attacked in the store’s parking lot on a Friday afternoon, sparking shock and grief in the local community.
The accused, Lemar Beasley, was arrested swiftly after a 24-hour manhunt and charged with first-degree murder, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities have described the incident as completely unprovoked, emphasizing the random nature of the crime.
Details Surrounding the Attack
On the day of the incident, both Kastens and Beasley were present inside the Dollar General store but did not interact or know each other beforehand. Deputies report that the violent attack occurred when Kastens was near her car in the parking lot. Beasley allegedly stabbed her repeatedly with a knife before fleeing the scene.
- Cops administered CPR at the scene until paramedics arrived.
- Kastens was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after.
- Beasley fled but was found hiding in a camper about 7 miles from the Dollar General.
- A knife believed to be used in the attack was recovered by investigators.
Background on the Suspect and Official Response
Investigations revealed that Lemar Beasley has an extensive criminal history spanning over three decades. He is a registered sex offender who was recently released from prison in July for failing to register as a sex offender. This background has heightened community concerns about the safety of the area.
“Our prayers and deepest condolences are to the family and friends of Cheyenne Kastens,” said Sheriff H.D. “Gator” DeLoach. “While I cannot take away their pain and sorrow while grieving the loss of a loved one, my promise to her family and our south Putnam community is that we will do everything to make sure this refuse of human garbage spends the rest of his life confined in a cell away from society and dies in prison. There is no reason for someone to lose their life for just going about their day.”
Beasley is currently held in the Putnam County Jail without bond.
Community Impact and Reflection
The random and brutal nature of this crime has left residents shaken and mourning the loss of Kastens, who was simply going about her daily routine. This case highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and the risks posed by individuals with violent criminal backgrounds.
Read Also: Multi-City Police Pursuit in Florida After Kidnapping at McDonald’s Leads to Five Arrests
For those interested in following updates on crimes like this, the source reporting provides ongoing coverage and expert insights: Law&Crime coverage.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Such Tragedies?
- Stricter monitoring and enforcement of sex offender registration.
- Enhanced community policing and public safety awareness.
- Support systems for victims and their families.
The community continues to seek justice and ways to prevent such unthinkable acts in the future.
Join the Conversation
What do you think about this tragic event and the measures to keep communities safe? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
