Suspect Arrested in Lake Worth Beach Shooting, Victim Expected to Survive

Nearly a week after a man was critically injured in a shooting in Lake Worth Beach, authorities have arrested the man they believe pulled the trigger. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) confirmed that Charles Elery was taken into custody without incident and is now facing multiple felony charges.

Shooting Reported on South Dixie Highway

The incident occurred on the afternoon of Saturday, April 12, when deputies responded to reports of gunfire around 1:38 p.m. in the 1600 block of South Dixie Highway. When law enforcement arrived on the scene, they discovered a man suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency responders quickly transported the victim to a nearby hospital. Though the victim sustained serious injuries, PBSO has since reported that he is expected to survive, offering some relief to the community as the investigation continued.

Suspect Initially Eluded Authorities

At the time of the shooting, investigators identified a person of interest but were unable to immediately locate the individual. Detectives worked through leads in the days following the incident and continued gathering evidence to identify and locate the suspect. Their efforts paid off when, days later, deputies tracked Elery to a residence in Lake Worth Beach. He was taken into custody peacefully, with no resistance reported during the arrest. Law enforcement has not yet disclosed the motive behind the shooting or the relationship between the suspect and the victim, if any.

Charges Filed Against Charles Elery

Following his arrest, Charles Elery was booked into the Palm Beach County Jail. He is facing serious charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. These charges suggest a violent encounter and highlight that Elery had prior convictions that legally barred him from possessing a firearm. PBSO continues to investigate the case, though officials have not indicated whether further arrests are expected or if additional charges may be filed as new details emerge.

Ongoing Commitment to Public Safety

The arrest comes as part of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office’s ongoing efforts to reduce violent crime and maintain public safety in neighborhoods across the region. Incidents involving firearms remain a concern for many residents, especially in densely populated urban areas like Lake Worth Beach. Officials are encouraging anyone with additional information about the shooting or related incidents to contact PBSO. Community cooperation, they say, often plays a critical role in solving cases quickly and bringing suspects to justice. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to release more details in the coming days. For now, the community can find some reassurance in knowing that a suspect is in custody and the shooting victim is on the path to recovery.