No Charges in South Tampa Fatal Shooting

TAMPA, FL – The Tampa Police Department has concluded its investigation into the fatal shooting of a 15-year-old male on Sunday, September 20, 2026. The State Attorney’s Office will not file criminal charges against the resident involved.

The investigation determined the teenager and two friends used phone tracking technology to locate a lost cell phone. The device’s signal led them to a gated community in the 13000 block of River Willow Place. They entered through an open gate and parked their truck in the roadway. After a community member asked them to move the vehicle, the group went door-to-door asking residents about the phone.

According to the investigation, the group then entered the enclosed backyard patio of a resident in his mid-20s and banged on his sliding glass door. The resident armed himself and put on a mask, intending to scare off the individuals he believed were trying to enter his home. As the other teenagers fled, a physical altercation occurred outside the patio between the 15-year-old and the resident. The resident stated he feared for his life when the teenager placed him in a headlock. A single round discharged from his firearm, striking the teenager.

Officers found the 15-year-old critically injured. Despite life-saving measures, he died at the scene. Investigators confirmed the resident cooperated and surrendered his firearm. The teenager's phone was not found in the residence and has not been recovered.

The State Attorney’s Office determined the evidence does not support criminal charges, as a claim of self-defense under Florida Statute 776.012(2) could not be refuted.