DELAND, Fla. – DeLand police are asking the public for tips and any information that could help them identify who murdered 19-year-old Dustin Rose and 18-year-old Samson Campbell. Investigators say they are actively searching for the person responsible and have no one in custody.
Police say they are aware of the social media chatter and community concern surrounding the case. In response, they are increasing patrols and their physical presence throughout DeLand to help residents feel safe.
[WATCH: DeLand police investigate double homicide near Athens Theatre]
“I think the focus is more on trying to like get to the bottom of it. I think that’s what has everyone on edge — are we going to find answers today,” said Brittany Schleper, a local salon owner.
Schleper’s salon is roughly a football field away from where the two bodies were discovered. She is among the downtown DeLand business owners and residents waiting for answers.
Last Thursday, police say the bodies of Rose and Campbell were found on a vacant industrial property near the Athens Theater. The childhood friends had each been shot multiple times. One of their mothers tracked a phone and located them at the scene.
On Saturday, police served a search warrant on Loughton Street connected to the case but have not disclosed how the location relates to the investigation. Authorities say they believe the shooting was an isolated incident.
“It’s been around the clock. They’ve been in over the weekend, they’ve been in long hours, they’re hardly sleeping right now,” said Sarah Lux, a city spokesperson.
Lux says officers not actively investigating the case have been deployed to patrol the community while the investigation continues.
“Any tip you have may seem insignificant. If you saw something and think that didn’t matter — it could still be a really big deal,” Lux said.
Anyone with information is asked to call 386-626-7400.