Pensacola, FL – A Florida man accused of fatally shooting his wife last Thanksgiving will go on trial next week after authorities say he led his children to discover her body before fleeing the scene. 38-year-old Darryl Walker faces charges of second-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a deadly weapon.
Tragic Discovery on Thanksgiving Morning
According to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on November 22, 2023, at the couple’s Aqua Porta apartment complex on Meadson Road. Walker allegedly called his daughter in the early morning hours, saying he “f–ed up” and claiming, “she grabbed the gun.”
Court documents obtained by Pensacola News Journal show that Walker did not answer when asked if his wife was okay. He remained quiet, prompting the daughter to wake her younger brother and rush to the apartment.
Children Led to Their Mother’s Body
Upon arrival, the children banged on the apartment door until Walker let them inside. According to law enforcement reports:
“Once inside, [the daughter] observed Levine laying on her side by the bathroom door covered in blood. [Walker] walked over to Levine, stood over her, and then he reached down to hug her.”
Levine, 35-year-old Sheena Marie Levine, was found without a pulse, and Walker himself was reportedly covered in blood. Deputies noted that when the daughter asked why he hadn’t called 911, Walker gave her a “weird stare” and did not respond.
Alleged Attempt to Flee and Evidence
Investigators said Walker attempted to retrieve the gun from near his wife’s body and prepare to leave, allegedly telling his daughter: “Baby, I gotta go. I can’t go back to jail.” A single shell casing was later recovered in the bathroom before emergency responders arrived and pronounced Levine dead at the scene.
A multi-agency manhunt was launched following the incident.
Arrest and Criminal History
Two days later, Walker was arrested in Panama City, approximately 140 miles east of Pensacola, and extradited back. Court records indicate Walker was released from prison in May 2022 after serving four years for child neglect and weapons charges, and previously served a year for aggravated battery against a pregnant woman.
Trial Scheduled
Jury selection in Walker’s murder trial is set to begin on August 25, 2025. Authorities continue to prepare the case, citing the violent nature of the crime and Walker’s prior criminal record as central elements.
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