On May 12, 2024, a deadly shooting occurred in the 500 block of S. Howard Avenue in Tampa, Florida, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, including Kenneth Washington. Washington, a 28-year-old black male born on January 15, 1996, was one of the three adult males injured in the shooting. The incident happened just before 3:00 a.m. in front of a Jimmy John's restaurant, where officers on patrol responded to reports of shots fired.
The preliminary investigation indicated that the shooting stemmed from a dispute between known parties, specifically an ongoing altercation between two rival neighborhood groups. This dispute escalated, leading to the shooting. Kenneth Washington and Kevon Christmas, another victim, succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced deceased at the hospital. A third shooting victim remains hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Tampa Police detectives have been working diligently to gather evidence and identify the suspects involved. Initially, no arrests were made, and the police were seeking help from the community, including any video footage that might have been captured by witnesses. However, on June 14, 2024, the Tampa Police Department made two arrests related to the shooting. Jakhari Filmore and Darryl Hill were charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Felony) after being identified as being in the area at the time of the shooting. Investigators are still determining if they were directly involved in the shooting, and additional charges could be forthcoming.
The community and local authorities have emphasized the importance of collaboration to ensure public safety. Chief Lee Bercaw of the Tampa Police Department has been working closely with area business owners and the community to address concerns and gather more information about the incident.
