I Made a Shirt About It”: Orlando Man Brags After Fatally Shooting Romantic Rival

Orlando, FL (32808)- — An Orlando man is under arrest after allegedly shooting his romantic rival and later bragging about the killing by printing a T-shirt to celebrate the act, according to the Orlando Police Department.

The suspect, whose identity has not been publicly released, reportedly shot the victim in the Pine Hills neighborhood near Silver Star Road following a dispute involving a shared romantic interest. Officers say the conflict escalated quickly and ended in gunfire.

But what shocked investigators even more was what came after the shooting.

“He bragged about it and wore the shirt,” said Lt. Maria Santiago during a Friday press briefing. “This wasn’t just a violent crime — it was a disturbing display of pride in taking someone’s life.”

Detectives say the man printed a custom T-shirt that referenced the murder and posted photos of himself wearing it on social media platforms. The content helped police connect him directly to the crime.

The victim, a 27-year-old man, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has not yet been released pending family notification.

The alleged shooter was taken into custody Thursday morning and is now facing charges of first-degree murder and tampering with evidence. Police say the online posts and shirt will be used as key evidence in the case.

Residents in the Pine Hills area expressed both sadness and disbelief.

“Violence is bad enough,” said Jamal R., a local barber. “But to make a shirt about it? That’s just evil.”

This case adds to a growing number of revenge-motivated shootings being tracked by law enforcement across Central Florida. Orlando police say they’ve seen an increase in violent acts glorified through social media in 2025.

Authorities are urging the public to report any violent posts, threats, or disturbing behavior online.

• Victims of Violence Helpline (Orlando CARE): 407-555-SAFE

• Anonymous tips: Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS

“This is the kind of behavior that needs to be stopped before it begins,” Santiago added.