Out of state murder suspect arrested on Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville, FL — After Jacksonville Beach reopened partially on Friday, police announced an arrest of man suspected of killing a man in Pennsylvania. Jacksonville Beach tweeted a photo of Mario Gatti wearing American flag shorts.

Police say while officers were patrolling the beach to make sure of social distancing, they arrested Gatti after they saw him lounging on the dunes.

A warrant was issued for Gatti’s arrest after police say he shot and killed 33-year-old Michael Coover Jr. in January.  The shooting happened at an apartment complex in Arnold, Pennsylvania.

Four months later, Gatti would be captured more than 800 miles away on Jacksonville Beach. Action News Jax checked Gatti’s criminal background and jail records show that he’s been in and out of jail for crimes like possession of a firearm, possession with intent to manufacture or deliver, and drug crimes.

Most recently Gatti was arrested in October of 2019 for possession of marijuana.  Police say Gatti is now being charged with criminal homicide, burglary and a firearms violation.  After his arrest, Gatti was taken to the Duval County jail.

Family members of the shooting victim told Action News Jax reporter Jamarlo Phillips Coover was a great father to his kids and he will be missed. Shirley Clegg, the victim’s sister, said her family is finally getting some closure nearly four months after her brother was killed.