Carjacking Attempt Turns Deadly in Clearwater

A Clearwater, Florida, woman shot two men who tried to steal her car. One suspect died. The other now faces a second-degree murder charge.

Planned Meetup Turns Violent

The suspects arranged to meet Louise Ornduff and her son, Kalaeb, in a Bank of America parking lot. They claimed they wanted to discuss buying a Nissan Rogue.

However, once they arrived, the situation escalated.
Both suspects were armed. They demanded the keys to the vehicle Kalaeb was driving.

Suspects Flee — Shots Fired

After taking the car, the suspects drove off.
At that point, Ornduff fired a single shot with her own weapon.

The bullet struck 18-year-old Lasupta Singletary.
17-year-old Jernalen Dreshaw Coleman then drove to a nearby hospital.

Doctors pronounced Singletary dead shortly after arrival, according to WFTS.

Police Review the Circumstances

Initially, police said they would carefully review the incident.
Investigators focused on timing, distance, and surveillance footage.

They also interviewed witnesses.

Criminal defense attorney Anthony Rickman, who is not connected to the case, explained the process to WTVT. He said authorities would determine whether the shooting qualifies as self-defense based on when the shot was fired and how far the car had traveled.

Charges Filed Against Surviving Suspect

Coleman now faces second-degree felony murder and armed robbery charges.

Prosecutors filed the murder charge because the death occurred during the commission of a felony.
Both suspects also had prior criminal histories.

Clearwater Police Deputy Chief Eric Gandy addressed the case, noting that their background and actions during the armed robbery spoke to their character.

Public Reaction Floods Social Media

Meanwhile, public response poured in online.
Many readers praised the mother’s actions.

Several commenters said she did what she had to do to protect herself and her son. Others argued that violent crime has pushed citizens to the breaking point.

Some expressed frustration with repeat offenders. Others said honest people are tired of being targeted and feel forced to defend themselves.

A Case That Continues to Spark Debate

For now, the investigation has moved forward.
One suspect is dead. The other awaits trial.

The case continues to fuel debate over self-defense, crime, and accountability in Florida.