Authorities in Indian River County have officially released the identities of the two Sebastian Police Department officers involved in a fatal shooting that occurred earlier this month. The tragic incident, which took place on the evening of September 17, resulted in the death of an armed 41-year-old resident following a domestic disturbance call.
Interim Police Chief Tim Wood confirmed that Sgt. Bryan Melius and Cpl. Devin Keskinen discharged their weapons during the encounter. Fortunately, neither officer sustained injuries. In accordance with standard law enforcement protocol for officer-involved shootings, both men remain on paid administrative leave while the investigation proceeds. Sgt. Melius has been a dedicated member of the agency since January 2017, while Cpl. Keskinen joined the department in November 2020.
The events unfolded at a residence located in the 500 block of Joy Haven Drive, situated quietly in a neighborhood just west of Barber Street and south of Sebastian Boulevard. At approximately 8:30 p.m., police dispatch received complaints of a loud disturbance, with callers reporting a man yelling and cursing loudly from the home. According to heavily redacted incident reports, responding officers could clearly hear a male voice shouting aggressively upon their arrival.
Officers Melius and Keskinen arrived on the scene at 9:30 p.m. and made contact with the suspect’s 74-year-old mother, who resided at the home with her son, identified as Keaton Eric Daucher. Just three minutes later, at 9:33 p.m., Daucher emerged from the residence armed with a shotgun, prompting both officers to fire their weapons.
Shots were fired, send EMS, there was a rifle and a suspect was down at the front door.
Following the confrontation, a third officer quickly arrived on the scene to assist Sgt. Melius and Cpl. Keskinen in rendering emergency medical aid. Despite their life-saving efforts, Daucher was officially pronounced deceased at 9:41 p.m. Based on current reports, it remains unclear whether Daucher pointed the firearm directly at the officers or managed to discharge it before being shot.
Important details regarding the aftermath and ongoing investigation include:
- The 74-year-old mother was uninjured during the terrifying ordeal and is currently receiving support from local victims’ advocates.
- Both officers had their body cameras activated during the confrontation, capturing the events as they unfolded. The Sebastian Police Department has not yet indicated when or if the footage will be released to the public.
- The entire case has been officially turned over to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for a comprehensive and independent investigation.
As the wider Treasure Coast community awaits further answers, state investigators will continue to analyze the body camera footage, physical evidence, and officer statements to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this fatal local incident.
