Darius Coon was more than just a name. He was a devoted father, a loving son, a youth football coach, and a kind-hearted man who deeply loved his children.
The 31-year-old Detroit native had recently moved to Miami but frequently returned home to visit his family and two young kids.
Just last week, he had driven back to Florida after a visit to Detroit. Then, without warning, all communication stopped.
“I talked to my son three, four times a day,” said his mother, Tashia Porter. “When he didn’t call, I knew something was wrong.”
The family quickly filed a missing persons report. Days later, their worst fears were confirmed.
Darius was found shot to death inside his truck in a Miami parking garage. Also found was 35-year-old Charlotte Rodriguez, who had been reported missing from New York. Both had been shot multiple times.
Police believe the two had met in Miami and were out on a date. The last known photo of Darius shows him seated at a restaurant table.
His family is devastated by the sudden loss.
“My granddaughter is seven. She doesn’t understand. She just knows Daddy’s not picking up the phone,” said his mother.
“My grandson, he’s a football player. He didn’t want to go to practice. His dad was always there.”
Miami police are reviewing surveillance footage and continuing their investigation. So far, there are more questions than answers.
Darius will be laid to rest in Detroit—on his birthday, August 7th.