Valrico Man Shoots at Driver Offering Help

A Valrico man faces multiple charges after allegedly firing several shots at a driver who stopped to offer assistance early Saturday. The incident occurred just before 1 a.m. near the intersection of Main Street and Grovewood Avenue.

Franklin Windham, 32, flagged down the victim, who was driving eastbound on Main Street, with a flashlight. The victim stopped his vehicle to see if Windham needed help. Authorities say Windham then fired multiple rounds at the victim’s car, striking it five times.

The victim drove to a nearby gas station and contacted the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. Detectives identified Windham as the suspect. A search of Windham's residence uncovered a firearm matching the caliber used in the shooting.

Sheriff Chad Chronister stated, “His kindness was met with violence.” Windham faces charges including attempted second-degree murder, shooting at a vehicle, discharging a firearm in public, criminal mischief, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.