An 18-year-old man is in custody after a social media marketplace sale turned into a life-threatening shooting in the 2000 block of Hibiscus Drive last week.
According to the Edgewood Police Department, the incident unfolded on April 8, 2026, just before 5:00 PM. Investigators say the victim met with Braulio Abreu to sell a valuable gold necklace. During the transaction, Abreu reportedly pocketed the jewelry, pulled out a handgun, and ran toward a waiting getaway car.
The situation escalated when Abreu allegedly turned and fired several shots at the victim. While the victim was not injured, the rounds struck a nearby building and a vehicle parked in the lot.
Following an investigation into the gunfire, authorities issued warrants for Abreu on charges of robbery with a firearm, aggravated assault with a firearm, grand theft, and shooting into an occupied building. This morning, deputies with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Abreu in Florida.
READ: New Felony Charges Filed Against Suspect In Deadly Hillsborough County Motorcycle Crash
Edgewood investigators are currently in Orange County as they continue to work the case. Police have labeled this an active and ongoing investigation and stated that additional details will be released as they surface.
In light of the violence, officials are reminding the public to prioritize safety when meeting strangers for private sales.
They recommend choosing well-lit, public areas or using designated safe exchange zones at local law enforcement facilities.
“EPD investigators… continue to work this case relentlessly,” the department noted in a statement, emphasizing their commitment to “Relentless Justice.”
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.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox
