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Shooting during Halloween celebrations in Ybor City leaves 2 dead and 18 injured, one detained
Police chief says it started as a fight between two groups of people. At least one person in custody.
Police have confirmed that a shooting occurred at approximately 3 a.m. Sunday in the heart of Ybor City’s nightlife district.
The incident unfolded on the 1600 block of East 7th Avenue, resulting in at least two fatalities.
Chief Lee Bercaw stated that the incident originated from a street altercation involving two groups. “Between these two groups, we had hundreds of innocent people involved that were in the way,” the chief explained.
Tragically, the shooting claimed the lives of two individuals, while 18 others were hospitalized. Although Bercaw did not provide detailed information about their injuries, Emmitt Wilson, a witness, shared that his 14-year-old son was among the victims who lost their lives.
As of now, the police have not officially released the ages or identities of the deceased.
Wilson expressed his anguish, stating, “This is the second child I’ve lost to gun violence. That’s all I have to say. I’m losing my mind right now; I don’t know what to do.” Chief Bercaw confirmed that officers were already present at the scene, and fortunately, none of his personnel were harmed.
Videos circulating on social media depicted officers assisting individuals in costumes who were injured on the sidewalk, while other bystanders fled from the gunfire.
Bercaw urged anyone with footage of the incident to come forward, saying, “We’re asking anybody that was out there that has video — and we know there are some out there cause we’ve seen them on social media — anybody that has video of this, to please report it to us. Call our non-emergency line at 813-231-6130.”
Authorities have confirmed the detention of at least one individual who voluntarily surrendered to the police. Chief Bercaw stated that there were at least two gunmen involved, though there may be additional individuals implicated.
He emphasized the importance of holding those responsible accountable, saying, “We need to hold those [responsible] accountable.”
