Deltona man charged in fatal stabbing following altercation.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

A Deltona man was killed Sunday morning following a heated argument, leading to his fatal injury. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Joseph L. McDonald, is now in custody and charged with first-degree murder.

Initially reported as a shooting incident at approximately 11 a.m., the 21-year-old male victim emerged from a residence off Glenridge Terrace in Deltona, visibly injured in the abdomen. A concerned witness quickly intervened, calling 911 for urgent assistance, and the victim was transported to a Deltona hospital for medical attention, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Authorities swiftly began a search for McDonald, a known person of interest, following a tip from a witness present during the incident. McDonald had fled the scene, prompting a concerted effort by law enforcement, including helicopter patrols and K-9 units, to locate him. He was eventually spotted around 1:15 p.m. on Newmark Drive, approximately 3 miles from the initial incident, with a notable injury to his left hand before being transported to a Sanford hospital for medical attention.

To everyone's surprise, subsequent examinations revealed that the victim had suffered stab wounds, contradicting the initial belief of gunshot wounds. Medical personnel at the Sanford Hospital also identified McDonald's hand injuries as lacerations from a sharp object.

During an interview with detectives, a surviving witness recounted the events leading up to the tragedy. The victim and the witness had visited a friend's residence on Glenridge Terrace to smoke marijuana. McDonald, the friend's brother, and housemate, grew agitated when denied the opportunity to join them.

A surviving witness reported that McDonald issued threats against the victim. As the altercation escalated, the witness sought refuge in the garage, where he overheard a scuffle inside the house. Moments later, the victim emerged from the residence, injured, and needing assistance. Detectives discovered that McDonald had been residing in the house for approximately two months and had a history of significant mental health challenges.

Following a comprehensive investigation, McDonald was charged with first-degree murder later on Sunday after the victim passed away and is currently being held without bond pending further legal proceedings.