On May 12, 2024, a deadly shooting occurred in the 500 block of S. Howard Ave in Tampa, Florida, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, including Kevon Christmas. The incident happened shortly before 3:00 a.m. when officers assigned to the SOHO area were already on scene for crowd dispersal and egress.
Kevon Christmas, a 23-year-old black male born on October 11, 2000, and Kenneth Washington, another black male, succumbed to their injuries from the shooting.
A third victim, also involved in the dispute, remains hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
The preliminary investigation indicates that the three adult males involved were known to each other and had previously interacted. The dispute among them escalated, leading to the shots being fired. Fortunately, there were no officers injured, and no additional injuries were reported among bystanders in the area.
The Tampa Police Department has been working diligently to gather evidence and leads in the case. As part of their investigation, two men, Jakhari Filmore and Darryl Hill, were arrested on June 14, 2024, on charges related to the shooting. Filmore and Hill are charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and investigators are currently determining if they were directly involved in the shooting. The investigation remains active, with the possibility of additional charges forthcoming.
The community and law enforcement are urging anyone with information that could assist detectives to come forward. Tips can be submitted through the Tampa Police Department or anonymously via Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay. The incident has left a significant impact on the families of the victims and the community, with Chief Lee Bercaw expressing his condolences to the loved ones affected by the violence.
