ST. LUCIE COUNTY – Colleagues and former students of Andre Leonard Barnes, 66, of Fort Pierce have taken to Facebook to express their sympathy regarding his recent violent death.
Barnes was allegedly shot by Dale Andrew Mincey, 41, on July 7 at 3:30 p.m., at a home in the 2700 block of Essex Drive, Fort Pierce, according to St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office reports.
Mincey was in the St. Lucie County Jail as of July 9 on out-of-county warrants for Broward County for dealing in stolen property and giving false information to a pawnbroker, with bonds totalling $4,500. Sheriff’s officials have said that they expect more charges to be filed against Mincey.
“We are devastated to report the loss of our Dad Andre Barnes to a senseless act of violence,” Victoria Barnes wrote in her Facebook posting. “As this is still an active investigation and involves deeply painful circumstances, we ask people to refrain from speculation or public commentary online. When details are available regarding the Celebration of Life we will share publicly. Thank you so much for all the kind words and prayers, they have really touched us.”
“Thank You for everything Mr. Barnes,” Gee Moneyy wrote in her posting. “I can truly say you was a big influencer in my life, you stayed in touch & made sure everything was good for the better & for that I’ll always be grateful. Thanks for also being in my (son’s) life & going out your way to make it to his 4th birthday party. I’ll make sure he keep his painting in a remembrance of you.”
Samuel S. Gaines Academy of Emerging Technologies in Fort Pierce expressed its condolences for Barnes, who taught art there since 2017.
“It is with heavy hearts that we remember and honor Mr. Andre Barnes, a cherished member of the Samuel S. Gaines Academy of Emerging Technologies family. Mr. Barnes was more than an exceptional art teacher. He was a mentor, leader, and gifted artist who inspired creativity and touched countless lives. His kindness, passion, and dedication left a lasting impact on every student and colleague fortunate enough to know him. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and all who loved him. His legacy will live on through the lives he changed and the art he inspired.”
“You will be forever missed, but never forgotten. You had one of the biggest hearts anyone could ever have. You lit up every room you walked into with your kindness, warmth, and joy,” Chriesty Jordan, a friend, wrote in her Facebook posting. “You always made sure the students had snacks and water, and you shared your incredible creativity by teaching so many different ways to create art. You left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing you. We just spoke last week, and it’s so hard to believe you’re gone. My heart hurts so much. Rest peacefully.”
Harold Mcneill, a former student, wrote that Barnes was “one of the best art teachers I ever met. Thank you for being that mentor and such (an) amazing guy. Andre Barnes — take your rest.”