Clifford Long, 37, of Palm Bay Arrested By Melbourne Police on First-Degree Premeditated Murder
By Space Coast Daily // April 1, 2026
Clifford Long, 37, Arrested on First-Degree Premeditated Murder, two counts of attempted first-degree murder and one count of possession of a firearm
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Melbourne Police Detectives of the Investigations Division have identified a suspect in the homicide of Bles’syn Lightner, which occurred on August 29, 2025, according to Melbourne Police Sergeant Benjamin Slover.
On March 31, 2026, investigators presented their findings to a Brevard County grand jury, indicting Brevard resident Clifford Long, 37, on one count of first-degree premeditated murder, two counts of attempted first-degree murder, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Melbourne Police investigators reported that on August 29, 2025, the shooting happened at a residence on Poplar Lane. Long reportedly broke into the family residence and shot grandmother Alicia Hayes in the hallway.
This indictment follows an extensive and methodical investigation.
Sergeant Slover said MPD detectives examined all available evidence, conducted numerous interviews, and worked diligently to identify inconsistencies and verify information.
Despite initially receiving limited details—compounded by misinformation that slowed early progress—our investigators remained committed to uncovering the truth.
They reviewed every lead, re-evaluated every statement, and pursued every avenue necessary to bring clarity to this case.
“The Melbourne Police Department remains steadfast in its commitment to seeking justice for victims and their families,” said Sergeant Slover. “Although an arrest has been made, there may still be additional witnesses with information about this case.”
Anyone with knowledge regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Melbourne Police Department at 321-608-6450 or anonymously through Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).
Ongoing Investigation into Fatal Shooting Incident
The Criminal Investigations Division continues to pursue active leads in connection with the tragic shooting that claimed the life of two-year-old Bles’Syn Lightner on August 29.
Two additional victims—a 54-year-old Black male and a 48-year-old Black female—remain hospitalized as they receive ongoing medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident.
Investigators have confirmed that the victims were shot inside the residence. While specific details cannot be released at this time due to the ongoing investigation, the scene has been thoroughly processed, and all available evidence is under review.
We are grateful for the public’s cooperation thus far, but urge anyone with information about this case to contact the Melbourne Police Department at 321-608-6450 or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).
Callers utilizing Crimeline can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.
On August 29, 2025, at approximately 10:51 p.m., Melbourne Police officers responded to a report of a shooting at a residence located at 904 Poplar Lane.
Upon arrival, officers located three gunshot victims inside the home: two adults and a 2-year-old child.
The adults were transported to the hospital and are currently listed in critical condition. Tragically, the child died at the scene. The child and the adults are related.
This is an active and ongoing investigation. Further details will be released as they become available.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Melbourne Police Department at (321) 608-6450 or anonymously through Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).
