Florida man convicted in murder of local rapper, officials say

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. - Officials said a Florida man has been convicted in the murder of a local rapper.

After a three-day trial, a Volusia County jury found defendant Robert Blue guilty of second-degree murder with a firearm.

Officials said Robert Blue recently was convicted in the murder of a local rapper following a three-day trial. (Credit: Office of State Attorney R.J. Larizza)

Who is rapper Jaron Smith?

Local perspective:

Jaron Smith, 32, was a local rapper from Palm Coast, Florida.

What happened to Jaron Smith?

The backstory:

The Daytona Beach Police Department said Smith was celebrating with a large group of people after signing a record deal and receiving one million views on Instagram on June 4, 2023, in the area of Orange Avenue and Caroline Street.

While celebrating, video surveillance shows Blue approaching Smith. The video shows the two beginning to argue, which then leads to a short, physical fight.

Officials said Smith tried to run away, but Blue pulled out a gun and shot him multiple times.

Police said Smith was shot in the back and legs, and he died from his injures at the scene of the incident.

Meanwhile, officials stated Blue ran from the scene, but later was arrested.

Charged for second-degree murder

The case was investigated by the Daytona Beach Police Department.

Assistant State Attorneys Helen Schwartz and Haley Mark tried the case for the state, and Elizabeth Blackburn presided over the case.

What's next:

Blackburn said she will pronounce a sentence for Blue at a later date.

Blue faces up to life in prison for the crime, reports show.

What they're saying:

"We continue our efforts to rid our communities of violent murderers," State Attorney R.J. Larizza said about the case. "Our efforts bear fruit and our citizens are safer for it."

STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO: