LAKE WALES, Fla. – A fatal shooting occurred in Lake Wales on the evening of June 18th, 2024, and is currently under investigation by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit.
Preliminary findings suggest that 21-year-old Vincent Thomas Jr., accompanied by at least three others, drove to a Northside Drive residence around 7:00 PM.
Thomas, armed with a handgun, confronted a 20-year-old male resident outside, threatening him with the weapon.
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The two men, former Lake Wales High School acquaintances, had a prior disagreement. During the altercation, the resident retrieved a rifle and fired multiple shots at Thomas, hitting him at least twice. The shooter remained on scene and is cooperating with detectives.
Thomas was transported to Advent Health Lake Wales Hospital by his friends, where he died from his injuries. Two of his friends were arrested for tampering with evidence and providing false information to law enforcement during a felony investigation.
Thomas had a criminal history including battery on law enforcement, threats against law enforcement, failure to appear, resisting arrest, and driving with a suspended license. He was also on felony probation at the time of the incident.
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