University of Florida Community Mourns 24-Year-Old Nursing Student Brooke Smith After Fatal Gainesville Incident
On Sunday, May 31, 2026, the University of Florida community mourned Brooke Smith, a 24-year-old College of Nursing student expected to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in August.
Gainesville police said officers responded Tuesday night to Creeks Edge Condos on Northwest 23rd Boulevard, where responders found Brooke and pronounced Brooke deceased at the scene.
Officials identified 31-year-old Xavion Perry in connection with the case and said early information pointed to a relationship-related situation.
The University of Florida College of Nursing shared deep sorrow, while classmates and faculty remembered Brooke as compassionate, focused, and committed to serving others through health care.
Brooke also worked at Yoga Pod in Gainesville, and the business closed for two days as colleagues honored a kind and calming presence.
Authorities later located Perry in the Daytona Beach area, and officials said a recovered body was confirmed as Perry by the Medical Examiner’s Office.
Memorial and funeral details will be announced later by family members.
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