College Football Player Nathaniel Jennings Fatally Shot in Downtown Melbourne Over Mother’s Day Weekend

College football star Nate Jennings was shot dead while returning home for Mother's Day

Nineteen-year-old college football player Nathaniel Bernard Jennings was shot and killed early Sunday morning in Downtown Melbourne, Florida, while home for Mother’s Day weekend. The fatal incident occurred around 1:51 a.m. in an area populated with restaurants and nightclubs and was reportedly captured on surveillance cameras.

Jennings, known as Nate, was a defensive lineman who began his college football career at the University of Northwestern – St. Paul. He had recently transferred to West Liberty University to continue playing football. His mother, Autumn Minick, confirmed his return to Florida was to spend time with family over the holiday weekend.

The suspected shooter, 24-year-old Stephan Dieujuste, a former college basketball player, has been charged with manslaughter. Dieujuste, who briefly played as a point guard for Eastern Florida State College, initially claimed the shooting was an act of self-defense. However, following an investigation, he was arrested and booked into the Brevard County Jail Complex. He was scheduled to appear in court Monday for a bond hearing.

Suspected Shooter, Stephan Dieujuste, 24

Authorities have not released specific details about the events that led to the shooting or clarified the relationship between Jennings and Dieujuste. Blood stains remained visible on the sidewalk near the Neon Rodeo bar where the incident occurred, underscoring the tragic violence that cut Jennings' life short.

Jennings was found unresponsive at the scene and was later pronounced dead. The young athlete had been recognized for his talent and dedication, earning all-conference honors during his first year of college football.

Matt Moore, head football coach at the University of Northwestern, expressed his sorrow over the loss. “Nate was a treasured member of our football team, being honored with all-conference accolades following his first year of collegiate competition,” Moore said. “For as talented as Nate was on the football field, he was an even better person off of it. His contagious energy and positivity will be missed. We are praying for Nate’s mother Autumn, brother Isaiah, and other members of his extended family during this difficult time.”