TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Police Department Detectives are asking the community for tips in a shooting on Independence Day that claimed the life of a 7-year-old boy.
Shortly after 8:30 p.m. on July 4, 2023, a shooting occurred along the Courtney Campbell Causeway west of Ben T. Davis Beach. As a result, a 7-year-old victim sustained a gunshot wound to his head, and the victim’s grandfather suffered a gunshot wound to his hand.
According to witnesses, a verbal altercation ensued between two groups regarding the reckless driving of a jet ski near the area where children were playing in the water. The altercation escalated when some members of each group began firing at each other. During the shooting, the grandfather was attempting to shield his seven-year-old grandson from the gunfire when they both were struck.
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At this time, there is limited information on the suspect’s description, but based on witnesses, it is believed that two groups of Hispanic males were shooting at each other at the time of the incident.
“Due to the location, we are asking if anyone has any information, whether it be personal knowledge, witnessed activity or a photo or video that may further the investigation, to submit a tip,” said Tampa PD.
Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to the identification and arrest of the unknown suspect(s) involved in this case.
Anyone with any information regarding the identity of the suspect(s) and who wants to be eligible for a cash reward is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477) or **TIPS, report anonymously online at www.crimestopperstb.com, or send a mobile tip using the free Florida Crime Stoppers Mobile application. Crime Stoppers must be contacted first in order to be eligible for a cash reward.
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