Claymont, Delaware – In a tragic incident at the Harbor House Apartments in Claymont, 35-year-old Devontre Taylor was fatally shot on Friday morning, August 23, 2024. The New Castle County Police Department responded to the scene at the 100 block of Harbor Drive shortly before 10:30 a.m., where they found Taylor critically wounded. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Authorities quickly identified the suspect as 27-year-old Michael Toombs, who allegedly shot Taylor during an altercation. The charges against Toombs are severe, including murder, robbery, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
The situation escalated as Toombs barricaded himself inside one of the apartments following the shooting. A tense standoff ensued, with SWAT teams and the Crisis Negotiation Team deployed to the scene. Residents were instructed to remain indoors as law enforcement secured the area. After a series of negotiations, Toombs was apprehended without further incident.
Toombs has been arraigned and is currently being held at the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution in Wilmington. The New Castle County Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and is urging anyone with additional information or video footage to contact Detective Arnold at (302) 395-2787.
The shooting has left the local community in shock, raising concerns about safety and the prevalence of gun violence. Residents of the Harbor House Apartments expressed grief and unease, reflecting on the tragic loss of life and the need for continued efforts to prevent such incidents in the future. As the investigation proceeds, the community is focused on healing and ensuring justice for Devontre Taylor.