71-Year-Old Florida Man Fatally Shot by Neighbor on Thanksgiving Amid Noise Dispute

Lauderdale Lakes, FL – Thanksgiving Day turned tragic for a Florida family when 71-year-old Hureleyon McLean was fatally shot by his neighbor during a dispute over loud music, according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office.

The incident unfolded after McLean reportedly went downstairs to speak with his neighbor, who had left a note complaining about the volume of music playing on the holiday. Shortly afterward, a gunshot rang out.

“I heard it, and I just flew to the door,” McLean’s widow, Rose, told WTVJ. “When I look out, my husband was laying face down in the blood.”

The shooter, who has not been named, claims self-defense, according to authorities. No charges have been filed yet, as the Broward County State Attorney’s Office continues its investigation.

Rose McLean vehemently denies the self-defense claim, emphasizing that her husband was unarmed during the encounter. “My husband didn’t have any weapons. My husband didn’t even have a knife on him,” she said.

A Celebration Turns to Mourning

The McLeans had been preparing to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends when the incident shattered their plans. Rose recounted her confrontation with the shooter, alleging that he threatened her life after the shooting.

“He wasn’t sorry,” she said. “He was just standing, looking at me with his gun in his hand the same way. And I go up to him and say, ‘Why did you shoot my husband? Why?’ And he said to me if I didn’t shut my mouth, he would shoot me, too.”

The tragedy has left the community grappling with grief. McLean’s pastor, Tracy McCloud, expressed disbelief at the senseless act of violence.

“It’s crazy how mankind has gotten to a place where we don’t honor life like we should,” McCloud told WSVN. “Who would have thought something tragic like this would happen?”

Hureleyon McLean, a devoted father and grandfather, was remembered as a man who brought joy and strength to his family. “Anywhere he is, I’m always with him,” Rose said tearfully. “We’re like a team together. For him to be taken away like this — trust me, it’s very hard.”

The Broward Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. The final decision on whether criminal charges will be filed rests with the Broward County State Attorney’s Office.

This devastating event has left a family mourning the sudden loss of a loved one on a day meant for gratitude and togetherness.