On October 29, 2023, a fatal shooting occurred in the 1600 block of East 7th Avenue in Ybor City, Tampa, Florida. This incident resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including 14-year-old Elijah Jaquan Wilson and 20-year-old Harrison Boonstoppel. The shooting took place during a disturbance or fight between two groups at a Halloween party, involving hundreds of innocent bystanders.
Elijah Jaquan Wilson was part of one of the groups involved in the altercation.
According to court documents, Wilson was seen approaching Tyrell Phillips, one of the suspects, in an "agitated manner" but with his arms raised away from his waist. Phillips, who was armed with a Glock 29 10mm semi-automatic firearm, claimed he was in fear after being approached aggressively by several individuals. Despite Wilson not pulling out a gun, Phillips fired his firearm in Wilson's direction, causing Wilson to fall to the ground instantly.
The shooting led to the immediate response of approximately 50 officers already in the Ybor City Entertainment District. Tyrell Phillips, 22, surrendered himself to police at the scene and admitted to being one of the shooters. He was subsequently charged with 2nd-degree murder for his role in the fatal shootings.
In addition to Phillips, a 14-year-old named Kayden Abney was also charged in connection with the shooting. Abney was arrested weeks after the incident and charged with 2nd-degree murder, attempted aggravated battery, and attempted murder for his role in Boonstoppel's death. Investigators determined that Abney fired the shots that killed Boonstoppel using a 9mm firearm.
The investigation is ongoing, with Tampa police still seeking additional shooters involved in the incident. The community has been urged to provide any tips or information that could aid in the investigation and bring further justice to the victims and their families.
