On November 22, 2024, at approximately 1 a.m., St. Petersburg police responded to reports of a shooting near the 300 block of Jefferson Circle North. Upon arrival, officers discovered 31-year-old Justin Baumgardner lying by the side of the street with a gunshot wound. He was promptly transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Initial searches for a suspect were unsuccessful.
However, later that morning, detectives detained a suspect known to Baumgardner for questioning. The identities of the suspect and further details about their relationship have not been publicly disclosed.
Baumgardner, born on September 18, 1993, in Tallahassee, Florida, was a skilled carpenter in the construction industry, admired for his dedication and willingness to help others. He is survived by his grandmother, siblings, nieces, nephews, and his girlfriend. Funeral services were held on December 4, 2024, at Joe P. Burns Funeral Home, followed by interment at Carlton Cemetery.
As of now, the investigation into Baumgardner's death is ongoing. Authorities have not released additional information regarding the suspect's identity or potential charges. The St. Petersburg Police Department continues to urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward to assist in their inquiries.
