TAMPA, Fla. – A brazen act of gun violence shattered the late afternoon calm in a Tampa neighborhood today, leaving one man dead and a community reeling. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is actively investigating a homicide that unfolded near the intersection of Progress Boulevard and South 82nd Street, claiming the life of a passenger in what Sheriff Chad Chronister decried as a “tragic loss of life.”
The deadly incident occurred at approximately 4:19 p.m. when deputies responded to frantic calls about a shooting. According to authorities, a female driver with a child in the backseat and the eventual victim in the passenger seat stopped to talk with the suspect at the intersection. Without warning, the suspect opened fire on the vehicle.
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In a desperate attempt to escape the barrage of bullets, the driver fled the scene. During their escape, the vehicle struck a motorized bicyclist, who fortunately sustained only minor injuries. The vehicle continued to a nearby Thorntons convenience store, seeking immediate help for the fatally wounded passenger.
The male victim, suffering from gunshot wounds to his upper body, was rushed to a local hospital. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he was pronounced deceased at 5:45 p.m. Authorities have not yet released his identity.
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“This is a tragic loss of life in our community that never should have occurred,” stated Sheriff Chad Chronister, expressing profound dismay over the senseless act. “We’re committed to finding who did this and making sure justice is served. If you have any information, please come forward.”
As of this evening, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. The HCSO is urging anyone with information regarding this crime to come forward and assist in their investigation. Those with knowledge of the incident are encouraged to contact HCSO directly at 813-247-8200.
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