On April 9, 2023, a mass shooting occurred near Poppy Park in the Carver Shores neighborhood of Orlando, Florida, resulting in the deaths of three people, including Patriza Deterville, a 33-year-old woman. The incident happened on Easter Sunday evening, around 6:50 p.m., when an argument between a 17-year-old boy, Tristan Morgan, and a 38-year-old man, Jamal Watson, who was driving a Lamborghini, escalated into a shooting.
During the exchange of gunfire between Morgan and Watson, both of whom died from their injuries, three innocent bystanders were also shot. Patriza Deterville, who was visiting her grandmother's house across the street from the park, was among those caught in the crossfire. She was on her grandmother's porch when she was struck by a bullet and later died from her injuries.
Deterville's grandmother, who wished to remain anonymous, described the tragic event, stating that her grandchildren were sitting outside her home enjoying family time on Easter when the shooting occurred. Deterville leaves behind four children, including a newborn. Another woman, Deterville's relative, was also injured in the shooting and was being treated at the hospital in critical condition.
The shooting took place during or after an Easter egg hunt at the park, with neighbors reporting that the incident followed an argument, although the exact circumstances leading to the shooting have not been fully detailed by police. The Orlando Police Department confirmed that all individuals involved in the shooting are accounted for and that they are not looking for any additional suspects. However, they mentioned a third shooter, a female, who is cooperating with the investigation.
The community and local leaders have expressed their grief and frustration over the incident, calling for greater efforts to curb gun violence. Orlando Commissioner Bakari Burns emphasized the need for collective action among leaders to address the ongoing issue of violence in the area. The police have also clarified that false rumors circulating on social media about a toddler being involved in the incident were incorrect.
