Self-Defense Claim in Deadly I-95 Shooting Following Heated Altercation

A deadly shooting on I-95 in Oakland Park followed a physical altercation at a Pompano Beach residence. Authorities are investigating whether the shooting, which claimed the life of 35-year-old Xavier Williams, was an act of self-defense.

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OAKLAND PARK, FL (2-minute read) — A deadly shooting on Interstate 95 in Oakland Park on Sunday evening is under investigation, following a dispute that began at a Pompano Beach residence, according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO).

Deputies responded just before 6:15 p.m. to a report of gunfire on the southbound lanes of I-95, just north of Oakland Park Boulevard. Emergency responders found 35-year-old Xavier Williams suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck. He was transported to Broward Health Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Investigators say the incident stemmed from a physical altercation between Williams and a woman earlier that day at a home in Pompano Beach. After the dispute, the woman left the scene in another vehicle accompanied by an unidentified man. At some point later, shots were fired between the two vehicles while traveling on I-95.

“The subjects were in two different cars, and how this shooting happened, detectives are not releasing that yet,” said BSO spokeswoman Miranda Grossman. The man involved in the shooting has claimed self-defense, and both he and the woman remained at the scene to cooperate with authorities.

Detectives are continuing their investigation, and once complete, the case will be turned over to the Broward County State Attorney’s Office to determine if charges will be filed. Law enforcement officials are asking anyone with information about the incident or who was in the area around 6 p.m. Sunday to contact the sheriff’s office.

Safety Tip: Firearms should only be used in self-defense when there is an imminent threat to life. Understanding Florida’s self-defense laws, including Stand Your Ground and Duty to Retreat, is crucial for responsible gun ownership.