TAMPA, FL – A teenage boy lost his life after being shot in a parking lot outside the Red Robin restaurant at Tampa’s Citrus Park Town Center Mall Saturday night. According to reports from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, a dispute broke out around 7:16 p.m. Saturday. The fight was accompanied by gunshots heard outside the mall.
At this point, two individuals have been detained for questioning, but no charges have been filed so far. The altercation reportedly began while the involved parties were dining.
Consequently, the adolescent victim was discovered on site with a gunshot wound on his upper body. He was promptly taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital for treatment. However, he was pronounced dead at 8:22 p.m.
Commenting on the tragic event, Sheriff Chad Chronister stated, “This senseless act of violence not only robbed a family of their loved one but caused unnecessary fear and trauma to dozens of people who were just trying to enjoy their Saturday night at the mall.” He added that their detectives are leveraging all resources at their disposal in order to bring the culprits to justice.
Investigative authorities have not provided any additional details regarding the victim’s age or circumstances leading up to the shooting incident. The investigation continues and remains active.