Ambush Of Teens In Game Room Leads To Arrest Of Apollo Beach Man

TAMPA, FL — Tampa police have made an additional arrest in a shooting that took place in the game room of the West River Boulevard apartment complex in the 1500 block of West Main Street on June 15.

On Monday afternoon, 18-year-old Jason Newson was arrested at 464 Flamingo Drive in Apollo Beach.

According to Tampa police, on the evening of June 15, Newson was with seven other teens in the game room of the West River Boulevard apartment complex when he pulled an AR-style rifle from inside his pants as another group of teens entered the game room.

Police obtained a surveillance video that showed Newson positioning himself in the corner of the game room and pointing the gun toward the door as a teen entered the game room followed by other teens.

Related: Tampa Police Chief, State Attorney Address Rise In Teen Shootings

At that point, police said Newson fired a single round. A muzzle flash can be seen on the video coming from the gun. Police said a 15-year-old, who was arrested on June 17, also fired a gun at the teens entering the game room.

One teen was shot twice and suffered life-threatening wounds

A second teen was taken to the hospital after being grazed in the knee by a bullet.

Detectives, following up on evidence and witness statements, were able to positively identify Newson and arrested him on Monday.

"I am thankful that no one was critically injured in this shooting," said Tampa Police Chief Bercaw. "Our detectives are committed to holding all those involved accountable for their actions. I hope that the arrest of these teens sends a strong message to all the young people in our community that there are serious consequences for engaging in violent, criminal behavior."

During a news conference following the shooting, Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez announced that she intends to prosecute teens who commit violent gun crimes as adults.

"I commend the Tampa Police Department for their relentless pursuit of justice in this case," she said. "It is because of their unwavering dedication to public safety that these acts of violence will not go unanswered. Our community is a safer place because of their tireless efforts and commitment."

Newson was charged with attempted murder, carrying a concealed firearm, shooting within a building and felon in possession of a firearm.