Joshua Howard (HCSO)

Spring Hill Shooting At Mermaids Lounge Leaves One Dead, Suspect Charged With Murder

Joshua Howard (HCSO)
Joshua Howard (HCSO)

SPRING HILL, Fla. – A dispute at a Spring Hill bar turned deadly early Saturday morning, resulting in the death of one man and the arrest of another on murder charges.

According to Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, on August 17th, a fatal shooting occurred at Mermaids Lounge in Spring Hill. The victim, Willie Joe Frazier Jr., was shot multiple times by Joshua Howard outside the bar. Frazier later died at the hospital.

Read: Early Morning Crash Sends Vehicle Into Spring Hill Home: Hernando County Fire Rescue

Howard attempted to flee but accidentally shot himself in the process. Deputies apprehended him shortly after.

The incident stemmed from a minor altercation inside the bar. Surveillance footage shows Howard confronting Frazier, and the two exchanged words before Frazier walked away. Howard followed, and after an apparent punch from Frazier, Howard shot him multiple times.

Read: Three Injured In Spring Hill Shooting: Hernando County Sheriff

Howard is currently hospitalized under guard and charged with 2nd Degree Murder with a Firearm. He will be transferred to jail upon release.

Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.

Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.

Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.

Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.

Login To Facebook To Comment