22-year-old charged Tampa shooting killed 2 injured 16

A shooting in Tampa, Florida, left two dead and 16 injured after a dispute between two groups broke out.

In the early hours of Sunday morning, a shooting occurred on a crowded street in Tampa, Florida, resulting in two deaths and 16 injuries. The incident took place in Tampa's Ybor City neighborhood, as people were leaving bars and nightclubs. The shooting erupted after a dispute between two groups escalated. Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw confirmed that a 14-year-old boy and a 22-year-old man were killed.

Of the 16 injured individuals, 15 were shot, while one person sustained other serious injuries. They were treated at the scene and transported to nearby hospitals by Tampa Fire Rescue. According to a statement from the Tampa police, many of the victims, aged between 18 and 27, have been treated and released, while five remain hospitalized.

Initially, it was reported that 18 people were injured, but Bercaw clarified that two people were killed and 16 were injured. The shooting in Tampa was one of several incidents that occurred across the country during Halloween celebrations.

The 22-year-old suspect, Tyrell Stephen Phillips, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder with a firearm. Bercaw expressed gratitude to the community for their assistance in the investigation, as numerous tips were received. He emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious activity promptly, regardless of the location.

According to Bercaw, officers were present at the scene and responded swiftly due to the large number of people in the area. Two handguns were recovered, one of which was stolen, and authorities are investigating the involvement of other shooters.

State Attorney Suzy Lopez stated that her office is working closely with law enforcement to address the shooting. She pledged to vigorously prosecute anyone responsible for senseless gun violence.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is assisting with the investigation. Bercaw expressed his condolences to the affected families and stressed the need for accountability and justice.

Authorities confirmed that there was a disturbance between the two groups involved in the shooting. One individual believed to be connected to the incident has turned himself in and is being interviewed by detectives. They are urging the community to provide tips and videos to aid in the investigation.

When asked about the possibility of gang involvement, Bercaw stated that it is still early in the investigation and that it will be explored further.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor revealed that 50 police officers were deployed to the area at the time of the shooting. She expressed her sadness over the lives lost and the lives forever changed by such incidents. Castor emphasized the need to address both the decisions made in a split second and the accessibility of guns.

In conclusion, the shooting in Tampa has left a community in shock and mourning. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of gun violence and the need for collaboration between law enforcement and the community to prevent further tragedies.