Gunshots Ring Out In Sarasota Neighborhood

SARASOTA, FL -- Police happened to be patrolling nearby when eight to 10 gunshots rang out in a Sarasota neighborhood Monday night.

Genevieve Judge of the Sarasota Police Department said the incident happened around 8 p.m. in the 1900 block of 32nd Street. No injuries were reported.

"Officers were conducting proactive patrol in the area of 31st Street and Pershing Avenue when they heard eight to 10 gunshots near the 1900 block of 32nd Street," Judge said. "Immediately following the gunshots, officers saw a vehicle traveling southbound on Gillespie Avenue at a high rate of speed."

She said the officers followed the car as it pulled over to the side of the road in the 2900 block of Gillespie Avenue.

"Three juvenile males exited the vehicle and began walking away," she said. "Officers were able to detain one of three juveniles for questioning."

Sarasota Patrol Captain Demetri Konstantopoulos said the agency promised residents last week that officers would increase the number of patrols in the north district following a spike in gun-related incidents.

“Because of proactive patrols in the area, our officers were nearby when this shooting happened, and they were able to take immediate action when they heard gunshots,” Konstantopoulos explained.

Sarasota police discovered what appeared to be two handguns and a rifle inside the vehicle, which was towed to the Sarasota Police Department. Police planned to execute a search warrant on the vehicle.

"Following a preliminary investigation, an additional crime scene was found in the 1900 block of 32nd Street," Judge said. "Officers learned that the three juveniles in the vehicle mentioned above and another vehicle may have engaged with each other with gunfire."

She said the incident remains under investigation.

To report a tip, call Detective Dan Riley at 941-954-7062 or leave an anonymous tip with Sarasota Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS or visiting www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.