5 Relatives Shot, 1 Killed In Christmas Eve Argument: Police

LAKELAND, FL — Five relatives were shot and one was killed Christmas Eve during an argument at a Lakeland home, police said.

A 15-year-old boy got into an argument with his relatives Thursday at a separate location from where the shooting occurred, according to investigators. A disagreement between the victims and relatives continued into the evening at a home in the 1500 block of Amos Avenue, Lakeland police said.

During the argument, a resident at the home is accused of shooting inside the house before 5:40 p.m. Other people arrived at the home and are accused of being involved in the shooting that injured a 13-year-old girl, 39-year-old woman, 43-year-old man, 19-year-old man and killed a 70-year-old woman.

The 70-year-old woman died at Lakeland Regional Hospital Christmas Eve, according to authorities. The other victims are expected to survive, investigators said.

Anyone with information that could help officers with this investigation is asked to contact Detective Tammy Hathcock at 863.834.6975 or tammy.hathcock@lakelandgov.net. To remain anonymous, contact Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida at 1-800-226 TIPS (8477), dial **TIPS from your cell phone or visit the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and submit a tip.