A suicidal Florida man shot and killed his daughter and six grandchildren, ages 3 months to 10 years old, Thursday at his home near Bell, Fla., reports the Gainesville Sun. The gunman was Don Charles Spirit, 51, who had served prison time for weapons charges. He killed his daughter Sarah Spirit, 28, and her six children. The motive was not revealed.
Don Spirit called 911 at about 4 p.m. Thursday and threatened to shoot his family. A deputy rushed to his home and talked to Spirit before he shot himself. Sheriff Robert Schultz said the deputy had “discussions” with Spirit but declined to give details. Deputies found the other bodies inside the house. Neighbors said Spirit family members had lived in the home since around 1998.