Crescent City, FL – A routine afternoon shopping trip turned fatal when a 36-year-old woman was stabbed to death outside a Dollar General in what authorities describe as a completely unprovoked and random attack. Deputies say the suspect, 54-year-old Lemar Beasley, had no prior connection to the victim and fled immediately after the assault, triggering an intensive manhunt that lasted nearly a full day.
Authorities shared details of the case in a statement posted by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, which outlined the moments leading up to the incident and the swift investigative response that followed.
Deadly attack unfolded without warning in store parking lot
Investigators report that both Cheyenne Kastens, the victim, and Beasley were inside the Dollar General in Crescent City on Friday afternoon. However, they did not interact, and there was no sign the two knew each other.
Kastens had reached her vehicle when Beasley allegedly approached with a knife and stabbed her repeatedly in a sudden and violent attack. Shoppers nearby called 911 as deputies rushed to the scene.
Cops attempted life-saving measures until paramedics arrived, but despite efforts by first responders, Kastens was pronounced dead shortly after at a local hospital.
Suspect fled the scene, prompting 24-hour manhunt
The sheriff’s office said Beasley immediately fled the area, disappearing before deputies arrived. Detectives identified him as the suspect within hours and launched a widespread search with additional units canvassing nearby roads, wooded areas, and rural residences.
According to officials, the manhunt ended when deputies located Beasley inside a camper on a property along Huntington Shortcut Road, roughly seven miles from the Dollar General. Officers took him into custody without incident.
A knife believed to be used during the attack was recovered at the scene.
Suspect has long criminal record and recent prison release
Authorities revealed that Beasley has an extensive criminal history going back around 30 years. He is also a registered sex offender who had been released from prison in July after serving a sentence for failing to register.
Detectives said the randomness of the attack makes it particularly disturbing and has deeply shaken the south Putnam community.
In a strongly worded statement posted to Facebook, Sheriff H.D. “Gator” DeLoach condemned the brutality of the crime.
“Our prayers and deepest condolences are to the family and friends of Cheyenne Kastens. While I cannot take away their pain and sorrow while grieving the loss of a loved one, my promise to her family and our south Putnam community is that we will do everything to make sure this refuse of human garbage spends the rest of his life confined in a cell away from society and dies in prison.”
Beasley is currently being held at the Putnam County Jail without bond.
Community shaken by violent killing
Residents say the attack has left them feeling uneasy, especially because it occurred in such a public and familiar location.
Key concerns emerging from the incident include:
- The absence of any motive, making families worry about everyday safety.
- The fact that the suspect had been released from custody only months earlier.
Local officials are urging residents to remain alert, especially in busy retail areas, though they emphasize that the suspect is now securely detained.
Broader conversation about repeat offenders
Crimes involving repeat offenders have fueled ongoing discussions in Florida and across the country about parole decisions and requirements for high-risk individuals after release.
Experts note that cases involving unprovoked violence often reignite debates on:
- Monitoring and compliance for sex offenders after release
- Whether individuals with long criminal histories should be eligible for early release
- The need for stronger community alert systems
The sheriff’s office indicated that additional investigative details will be released as the case moves forward.
Conclusion
The fatal stabbing of Cheyenne Kastens has devastated her family and shocked the community, especially given the randomness of the attack and the suspect’s long history of criminal behavior. With Beasley now in custody, investigators are working to prepare the case for prosecution as residents mourn the loss of a woman who, as officials said, was simply going about her day.
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