13-Year-Old Charged With Shooting Teen At Curtis Hixon Park

TAMPA, FL — A 13-year-old has been arrested in connection with a New Year's shooting that seriously injured a 16-year-old boy at Curtis Hixon Park at 600 N Ashley Drive in downtown Tampa.

According to police, at 8:48 p.m., the 16-year-old and a 13-year-old boy got into a yelling match that turned into a physical fight. Five or six other teens jumped into the fight and began striking and kicking the 16-year-old. During the fight, the 13-year-old pulled out a gun and shot the 16-year-old in the upper body. He then fled from the area.

Tampa police responded within 45 seconds after the 911 call for service was dispatched. They arrived to find the 16-year-old being given first aid for a gunshot wound by bystanders. He was taken to the hospital where he remains in serious but stable condition.

Police said witnesses at the scene helped police identify the 13-year-old shooter. Police went to his family's apartment in Tampa Wednesday night and arrested him.

Police are now trying to determine how the 13-year-old got his hands on a gun.

"It's unfortunate that individuals bring their feuds to a public place where families are just looking to have fun, and even more upsetting that the perpetrator has made a bad decision that will likely change his life forever," said Interim Police Chief Lee Bercaw. "We worked quickly and diligently to identify those involved, which is why the suspect was identified within 24 hours. We won't let those who commit these crimes deter our residents from enjoying public venues in our city."

The teen is facing a felony charge of aggravated battery with great bodily harm.

See related stories:

• Teen Shot After Fight Breaks Out At Curtis Hixon Park In Tampa
• Police Search For Person Who Shot 16-Year-Old In Curtis Hixon Park