Sarasota Man Pleads Guilty To Shooting Victim In Face

SARASOTA, FL — Twenty-nine-year-old David Evans, who shot a man in the face after losing a fight to him at a Sarasota party, has pleaded guilty to attempted murder. Evans was sentenced to 20 years in jail under a plea agreement, according to Sarasota police.

The incident happened around 3 a.m. on May 2 in the 1400 block of 19th Street. "When Officers arrived, they found the victim with a gunshot wound to the face," explained Genevieve Judge of the Sarasota Police Department. "The victim was transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital by paramedics and survived."

The victim's girlfriend told police that the initial fight occurred during a party for the victim’s brother.

"Witnesses said Evans was very intoxicated and arguing with everyone. Witnesses added Evans swung his fist at the victim who defended himself by taking Evans to the ground," Judge said. "Several people at the party forced Evans outside. Evans began making threats and left the area."

Evans returned to the home a short time later and ambushed the victim in the driveway.

"Evans shot him from the yard next door. Evans fled the area on foot and was arrested later the same day," Judge said.

Evans is being held at the Sarasota County Jail.

Photo of David Evans courtesy Sarasota Police Department