Updated: Arrest Made in Beulah Fatal Shooting Stemming From Dispute
July 10, 2025
An arrest has been made in a shooting that killed a man Wednesday evening in Beulah.
Randy Lee Pierce, age 49 of Frank Reeder Road, has been charged with second degree homicide and aggravated assault with a weapon. He was booked into the Escambia County Jail early Thursday morning and is being held without bond.
The victim was shot multiple times in the chest around 7:50 p.m. in the 7500 block of Frank Reeder Road near Pepperwood Road, according to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office (ECSO). He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
ECSO deputies responded to reports of a shots fired disturbance and a shooting victim at the scene. The investigation revealed a dispute between Pierce and two victims, identified as a stepfather and stepson, residing on Frank Reeder Road.
According to the stepson, who was allegedly assaulted in the incident, the suspect, Randy Lee Pierce, had been seen recording individuals on motorcycles riding along Frank Reeder Road. The stepson stated that Pierce had previously confronted him about his motorcycle approximately a week prior, an encounter that reportedly ended amicably, according to the ECSO.
On Wednesday night, the stepson observed Pierce recording him again and informed his stepfather (the homicide victim). The two victims then rode their motorcycles towards the intersection of Frank Reeder Road, where they again saw Pierce recording them.
The stepson recounted that the stepfather dismounted his motorcycle and calmly approached Pierce with an extended hand, seemingly attempting to shake hands. However, Pierce, who was reportedly yelling and acting aggressively towards both victims, allegedly displayed a firearm and shot the stepfather multiple times. Pierce then allegedly pointed the firearm at the stepson.
Following the shooting, Pierce reportedly returned to his home and subsequently left the scene with his wife, who later contacted ECSO at a nearby Circle K convenience store.
Pierce provided a different account to authorities, claiming he acted in fear. However, the ECSO stated that two independent witnesses present at the scene corroborated parts of the stepson’s statement. These witnesses stated they observed the stepfather attempting to shake Pierce’s hand, which Pierce refused. They also heard someone yell, “I’m going to whoop your ass,” though they could not identify who made the statement due to the distance. The witnesses observed Pierce display a firearm and shoot the stepfather, continuing to fire even after the victim had fallen to the ground.
The Sheriff’s Office stated investigators confirmed that when the homicide victim was shot, he was on the county road, not on Pierce’s property.
Donna Jo McDaniel
July 10, 2025
Donna Jo McDaniel, 65, of Pensacola, Florida, passed away Wednesday, July 2, 2025. She was born in Columbia, Missouri, on November 6, 1959 to Ben and Arbell Chew. Donna was married to Robin McDaniel for 38 years. She worked as an Insurance Examiner for Vivian Crumwell. Donna was a member of Smyrna Baptist Church for six years and Christian Fellowship Baptist Church for 15 years, as the secretary and Sunday School teacher. Donna enjoyed baking, crafts, going to the beach, and family time was very important to her.
Donna was preceded in death by her father, Ben L. Chew; mother, Arbell Chew; son, James Randall Evans; father-in-law, Dave McDaniel Sr., and brother, Ben L. Chew, Jr.
Donna is survived by her husband, Robin McDaniel; son, Kevin Evans; son, Tylon McDaniel; granddaughter, Anaiah Rae Olhrogge-Evans; sister, Debra (Jerry) Furman; sister, Tammy (Bill) Portner, sister, Tresa (Jimmy) McCaskill, sister-in-law Amy (Marcus) Chew Brewer, sister-in-law Carol (Herman) Black, brother-in-law Donnie (Twana) McDaniel, brother-in-law Dave McDaniel Jr., and a host of nieces, nephews, family members, church family, and friends.
Visitation will be at Faith Chapel North located at 1000 S Hwy 29, Cantonment, FL 32533 July 17, 2025 from 3-5pm.
Funeral Service will be at Smyrna Baptist Church located at 7000 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32505 July 18 at 11 am.
Pallbearers will be Donnie McDaniel, Levi Chew, Herman Black II, Dave McDaniel III, Wryan Powe, Bobby Tarton and Amir McDaniel.
Escambia Westgate Staffer Selected To Attend Legislative Summit In Washington
July 10, 2025
An Escambia Westgate staff member has been selected to attend the Special Education Legislative Summit 2025 later this month in Washington.
Lucy Waters is an instructional behavioral assistant at Westgate. She is currently enrolled in the ParaToTeacher scholarship program through UWF, which is designed to remove financial barriers for paraprofessionals who want to earn a degree in exceptional student education.
As part of the program, Waters was selected to attend the summit in the nation’s capital from July 13-16. She will have many opportunities to speak with different legislators about the importance of funding for Exceptional Education. Waters said she is excited to go and “carry the voices of all my colleagues and students to the people that make changes happen.”
Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Woman Arrested in Escambia County After DUI Crash And Alleged Assault On Officers
July 10, 2025
A Cantonment woman is facing multiple following charges following a series of incidents that began with a single-vehicle crash on Williams Ditch Road in Cottage Hill. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and Escambia County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene after witnesses reported erratic driving and a collision involving a red Kia Sorento.
Kristy Lee Mabire, 47, was charged with DUI, resisting arrest with violence, bribery of a public servant, and battery on a law enforcement officer.
According to the arrest report, Mabire was found sitting near the crashed vehicle, which had its airbags deployed. Witnesses described her behavior as “maniacal,” and the trooper noted signs of intoxication, including slurred speech and the smell of alcohol. When questioned, Mabire denied drinking but became uncooperative, attempting to walk away from the scene. The trooper and deputy detained her after she resisted their efforts, the report states.
According to the FHP report, she later asked the trooper if he wanted a sexual favor, but he declined.
“She stated that she said that to only see if I was a good guy. l believed that she asked me that in an attempt to bribe me from placing her under arrest,” the trooper wrote in his report.
During transport to the Escambia County Jail, Mabire allegedly became combative, kicking the glass partition in the FHP vehicle and attempting to assault the officer. Upon arrival at the jail, her behavior escalated further, culminating in an alleged assault on the trooper, whom she reportedly kicked in the groin, FHP said. Mabire was placed in a holding cell after additional combative behavior.
Medical staff at the jail determined Mabire required evaluation at Baptist Hospital due to her condition. The report states that during transport in an ambulance, she continued to yell and act aggressively. After being medically cleared, she was returned to the jail and booked.
Mabire faces felony charges for her actions, including bribery of a public servant and battery on an officer, as well as misdemeanor charges for DUI and obstruction without violence. She is being held at the Escambia County Jail without bond.
The incidents were captured on body cameras, patrol vehicle cameras, and jail surveillance systems, according to the report.
Mabire remained in the Escambia County Jail Thursday morning with bond set at $15,000.
Atmore Man Charged With Child Sex Abuse
July 10, 2025
An Atmore man has been charged with the sexual abuse of a child.
Charles Edward Hawkes, 46, was charged with sexual abuse of a child under the age of 12 and enticing a child for immoral purposes.
The Atmore Police Department said the investigation began after a family member reported that a child had been sexually abused.
Atmore Police worked with the Department of Human Resources and the Child Advocacy on the case.
Hawkes was booked into the Escambia County Detention Center in Brewton.
Germany’s Butting Selects Loxley For $61 Million Steel Pipe Production Facility
July 10, 2025
Butting, a global stainless steel pipe manufacturer, announced plans Wednesday to establish its North American headquarters and first United States production facility in Loxley — just across the state line from North Escambia — as part of a $61 million growth project.
The company’s plans will unfold in two strategic phases, triggering the creation of up to 100 high-quality jobs with wages significantly above the county average.
Butting, founded in 1777 and headquartered in Knesebeck, Germany, is an internationally recognized leader in stainless steel pipe technology, clad pipes, customized spools and components, as well as cryogenic pipe and valve technology systems.
With operations in Germany, Finland, Brazil, Canada, China, and now the U.S., the company continues to expand its global presence. The new Alabama facility will be constructed on a 50+ acre site in the established Loxley industrial corridor.
“Our decision to locate in Baldwin County was driven by the area’s overall attractiveness to live and work, a skilled labor force, proximity to key transportation routes and welcoming business environment,” said Adrian Rochofski, CEO & Managing Director of Butting USA.
“We’re excited to grow our footprint in the United States and call Loxley our home in North America.”
“Butting’s decision to launch its North American headquarters and manufacturing operation in Baldwin County is a powerful endorsement of Alabama’s strengths in workforce readiness, industrial infrastructure and global business relationships,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
“This investment not only brings high-paying jobs to Loxley but also supports the growth of a German industry cluster that will generate long-term economic benefits across the region,” she added. “We’re proud to welcome Butting to Alabama, and we look forward to building a lasting partnership.”
Phase 1 of the project will focus on establishing Butting’s North American headquarters, engineering functions, the fabrication of high-quality stainless-steel spools, components and cryogenic pipe systems.
Phase 2 will see a vertical integration buildout of the U.S. production operations, integrating two state-of-the-art stainless steel welded pipe mills, expansion to further cryogenic production portfolio, and expanded fabrication capabilities, to further serve key industrial sectors across the United States.
The official groundbreaking of Phase 1 is expected in Fall 2025, with construction and hiring ramping up in the next few weeks.
Hot And Humid With A Chance Of Afternoon Showers
July 10, 2025
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. West wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. High near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Friday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Saturday: A chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 10am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Sunday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Monday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Monday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74.
Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Tuesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.
Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 90. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
James (Jim) William Leath
July 10, 2025
James (Jim) William Leath, of Pensacola, passed away peacefully on June 14th, 2025. Jim was born on Oct 6th 1937 in Chattahoochee, Florida. He was the son of Alice Laverne Merchant “nee” Gilbert and Alex Merchant.
Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Susan Bear Leath and survived by his son, Eric Leath, daughter Nikki Leath Faktor (Roy), and Bobbi Kitty.
He was always ready to help anyone, and loved nature, the mountains and children. He had a long, exciting career as a police officer with Pensacola Police Department and retired as a well adored sergeant after serving in the Marines and a few other odd and exciting jobs.
We would like to thank Dad’s wonderful caretakers that were his heart for the last couple of years. DJ, with hospice, Tammy, Sinciera, and Angie. You all were the bright light in the last few years and made life so much better.
A celebration-of-life will be held at the Pensacola Yacht Club on Saturday, July 19th at noon. All friends and family are welcome, attire will be casual. We request that contributions to your favorite charity be sent in lieu of flowers.
James (Jim) William Leath
July 10, 2025
James (Jim) William Leath, of Pensacola, passed away peacefully on June 14th, 2025. Jim was born on Oct 6th 1937 in Chattahoochee, Florida. He was the son of Alice Laverne Merchant “nee” Gilbert and Alex Merchant.
Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Susan Bear Leath and survived by his son, Eric Leath, daughter Nikki Leath Faktor (Roy), and Bobbi Kitty.
He was always ready to help anyone, and loved nature, the mountains and children. He had a long, exciting career as a police officer with Pensacola Police Department and retired as a well adored sergeant after serving in the Marines and a few other odd and exciting jobs.
We would like to thank Dad’s wonderful caretakers that were his heart for the last couple of years. DJ, with hospice, Tammy, Sinciera, and Angie. You all were the bright light in the last few years and made life so much better.
A celebration-of-life will be held at the Pensacola Yacht Club on Saturday, July 19th at noon. All friends and family are welcome, attire will be casual. We request that contributions to your favorite charity be sent in lieu of flowers.
Brenton Dale Kelley
July 10, 2025
Brenton Dale Kelley was born on September 16, 1963 to Clyde “Buck” and Glenda Kelley, and passed away on July 4, 2025. He is preceded in death by his Father, Buck Kelley, and brother, Timothy “Moe” Kelley. He is survived by his Mother, Glenda Kelley; son Daniel (Nikki) Kelley; daughter Jill (Jeffery) Steadham; grandchildren Liam, Clara Ann, and Logan; sisters Beverly (Mike) Digmon and Ellen (Darryl) Sims; and many nieces and nephews.
Brenton was a lifelong resident of Bogia. He will always be remembered for his lively spirit and his love for the outdoors. He could usually be found in the woods or on the water. He was a superior hunter and fisherman, making his nickname “Hook” most fitting. He also excelled in many sports, and was known for being a star athlete in baseball and football. He also spent time later in life coaching football and baseball, a role in which he was very loved.
He leaves behind a trail of memories for his loved ones, most of which are remembered with a smile, thinking of the fun adventures which were had over the years.
A memorial service will be held at Ray’s Chapel Baptist Church on Saturday, July 19, at 10 a.m.. Family and friends are all welcome to attend.