On Sunday, October 29th, at 2:47 a.m., Tampa Police Officers responded to a shooting incident in the 1600 block of E. 7th Ave. Approximately 50 officers were on duty in the 7th Ave area at that time.
Preliminary findings suggest that a confrontation between two groups escalated into gunfire in the street. This resulted in the death of one male at the scene, with 17 other victims transported to nearby hospitals. A second victim died from his injuries at the hospital.
One individual involved in the shooting has been apprehended for further questioning. Chief Lee Bercaw expressed condolences for the victims and emphasized the commitment of detectives to hold those responsible accountable.
Detectives are actively collecting additional evidence and pursuing leads to determine the causes of the shooting and identify all parties involved. Local businesses are cooperating with Tampa Police to review surveillance footage that may have captured the incident.
Tyrell Stephen Phillips, age 22-year-old, was arrested and facing charges of second-degree murder.
Of the total 18 victims, two died, a 14-year-old and a 22-year-old. Fifteen of the victims were shot, and one victim suffered another unspecified serious injury. The hospitalized victims ranged in age from 18-27.
At 3 p.m., Chief Bercaw reported that most injured were already released from the hospital. Five of the victims remained hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators urge anyone with relevant information to contact Tampa PD at 813.231.6130 or Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477).