3 persons shot near Tampa Armature Works

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw reported that at least three individuals were shot Tuesday afternoon in the vicinity of Armature Works in Tampa’s Heights District.

As of now, no arrests have been made, and authorities are actively seeking the individual or individuals responsible for the shooting. The incident occurred shortly after 4 p.m. on the 1900 block of N. Ola Avenue.

Before the arrival of first responders, one individual appeared to be injured and was receiving medical attention, while others were observed fleeing for safety.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw reported that at least three individuals were shot Tuesday afternoon in the vicinity of Armature Works in Tampa's Heights District. The shooting happened just after 4 p.m. on the 1900 block of N. Ola Avenue. pic.twitter.com/cMyuDtWdXM

— Channel3 Now (@channel3nownews) April 9, 2024

Upon arrival, Tampa Fire Rescue administered treatment to the injured parties, though the extent of their injuries remains unknown at this time.

Police confirmed that one individual sustained a gunshot wound to the arm. Additionally, a witness, who preferred to be identified as Val, recounted seeing a woman being shot in the leg.

“We were unsure how to react until we heard more gunfire, and then security personnel approached us, instructing us to flee,” Val recalled. “So, we hurried towards the restaurant on the opposite side.” Val described the shooting as sudden, occurring while she was attending a work meeting at Stones Throw, a restaurant within the Armature Works complex.

She found herself aiding the injured woman, whom she mentioned had a baby with her.

“It all unfolded so rapidly,” she remarked. “I couldn’t discern the source of the gunfire. I’m unsure how she got injured. She was right beside us. It happened incredibly swiftly.” Law enforcement has cordoned off the scene since then. Officers are currently assessing whether there are additional injuries and have clarified that this was not classified as an active shooter situation. Chief Bercaw characterized the incident as “completely unacceptable,” emphasizing that it wasn’t a targeted attack but rather a disturbance that escalated into gunfire.

Authorities are urging anyone who was in the vicinity and recorded footage on their mobile phones to reach out to them. Ulele, a restaurant neighboring Armature Works, has declared its closure for the remainder of the day following the shooting incident.

Chief Bercaw affirmed during a press briefing that the two incidents were not connected.

This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.