Operation Ice Breaker focused on alleged shootings, fentanyl trafficking and firearms storage across the county.
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A multi-agency law enforcement operation swept across Volusia County on Wednesday, with officers executing 10 search warrants tied to an alleged violent criminal enterprise.
The operation targeted alleged members of the Cutthroat Killers gang and is expected to lead to more than 50 arrests, officials said. Local, state and federal agencies took part in the second phase of Operation Ice Breaker, an investigation that began with Daytona Beach police in 2024.
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood said investigators spent about a year using surveillance and a federal wiretap to track the group. “We know from the investigation over the past year that this is where they were storing their dope and their guns,” Chitwood said, referring to one property searched during the operation.
Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young said investigators believe the group is linked to multiple shootings, overdose deaths and trafficking in fentanyl, crack cocaine and other illegal drugs. Authorities also said the gang is believed to be connected to a shooting at Buc-ee’s about two weeks before the raids.
The warrants were served at 10 locations across the county, with SWAT teams assisting at several sites. Officials did not immediately release a full list of suspects, charges or seized items. They said the investigation remains active and more information will be released as arrests continue.
Operation Ice Breaker began as a Daytona Beach Police Department case before expanding into a broader effort involving regional and federal partners. Officials described Wednesday’s searches as a major step in dismantling the alleged organization, not the end of the case.
The investigation remained ongoing Wednesday night, with authorities expected to release more details on arrests, charges and evidence after the next phase of the operation.
Author note: Last updated July 1, 2026.