The Tampa Police Department has made an arrest in connection with a shooting that occurred in Tampa, Florida, leaving two people dead and 16 others injured. The incident took place in the early hours of Sunday morning in the Ybor City neighborhood, near a strip of bars and clubs on East 7th Avenue. Police Chief Lee Bercaw announced that 22-year-old Tyrell Steven Phillips has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder with a firearm.
The shooting was the result of a dispute between two individuals, although the exact cause of the altercation is still unclear. The victims, a 14-year-old black male and a 22-year-old white man, tragically lost their lives. Fifteen others suffered gunshot wounds, while five individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Chief Bercaw expressed gratitude to the community for providing numerous tips that led to Phillips’ arrest.
Surveillance footage from the area is currently being reviewed and may potentially lead to the identification and apprehension of additional suspects involved in the shooting. Chief Bercaw emphasized the police department’s commitment to bringing those responsible to justice, stating, “What happened is completely unacceptable, and the Tampa police department is not going to tolerate it. We make arrests quickly. We have a sense of urgency. And if you’re going to be out there with a gun, you’re going to pay for it.”
Videos shared online depict the chaotic scene, with people in Halloween costumes fleeing in panic as gunshots rang out. Individuals took cover behind metal tables and sought refuge from the violence. In the aftermath, police officers provided assistance to the wounded victims lying on the ground. Fortunately, none of the officers were injured during the incident.
The investigation into the circumstances leading up to the fight is still ongoing. The Tampa Police Department is determined to bring clarity to the situation and provide justice for the victims.
