Guilty Verdict in 2023 Homicide at Carlton Arms

April 23, 2025 

Case #: 2023-007434 

Today, a Manatee County jury found Nicholas Shermer, 28, guilty of second-degree murder in the 2023 death of his girlfriend, Amanda Shoaf.

On August 27, 2023, Shermer called 911 to report that he had shot Shoaf following an argument in their apartment at Carlton Arms on Carlton Inlet Drive. He remained in the apartment until officers arrived and was taken into custody without incident. Officers discovered Shoaf in the couple's bedroom, and an autopsy later revealed that she had been shot four times.

Following his arrest, Shermer told detectives the couple was arguing about plans to celebrate Shoaf’s birthday. Shermer stated he was upset that her family asked him not to attend. He then admitted shooting his girlfriend but claimed Shoaf was standing between him and the bedroom door, preventing him from leaving the room. Forensic evidence presented at trial contradicted Shermer’s claim.

Shermer’s trial began on April 20. The court will set a date for sentencing. Shermer faces a sentence of 25 years to life in the Florida Department of Corrections. 

Nicholas Shermer