Two individuals have lost their lives and 18 additional individuals sustained injuries in a shooting incident that occurred early Sunday morning in the Ybor City neighborhood of Tampa, Florida. According to the police, the incident took place following a confrontation between two groups. Tampas police chief, Lee Bercaw, stated during a news conference on Sunday morning that law enforcement personnel were present at the scene when the incident unfolded, around 3 a.m.
"People were out on Saturday night. Its three oclock, the bars let out, theres hundreds in the street," Bercaw said.
Authorities believe there were at least two shooters involved.
The extent of the injuries suffered by the 18 people involved in the incident, whether they were caused by gunshots or other means, remains uncertain. Bercaw expressed sorrow over the incident and emphasized the distressing experience for families who have to learn about it through the news.
Authorities have confirmed that a "disturbance or altercation occurred between the two groups." An unidentified male, suspected to be connected to the incident, has surrendered himself and is currently undergoing questioning by detectives. The authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information, tips, or videos that may aid the investigation.
"This situation is complex, but based on our current knowledge, it appears to have been a conflict or altercation between two groups," stated Bercaw. He further emphasized that "within this confrontation, numerous bystanders, who were completely unrelated, became unintentionally involved."
"We will ensure that those responsible are held accountable and brought to justice. However, we rely on the community's cooperation to achieve this outcome, and that is our request," he emphasized.
In response to whether authorities consider this incident to be gang-related, the police chief stated, "It is still early in the investigation, so that aspect will be thoroughly examined."