FL Teen Charged With Murder In Fatal Mall Shooting: Sheriff

CITRUS PARK, FL — A teenage boy faces charges, including second-degree murder, in the fatal shooting of a minor at the Citrus Park Town Center mall on Sept. 14, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Samuel Oquendo, 15, who was arrested Thursday night, was also charged with being a minor in possession of a firearm and carrying a concealed firearm.

He’s being charged as an adult for his crimes, the state attorney’s office said.

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“We will continue to use every tool we can as prosecutors to hold teenagers accountable for acts of gun violence in Hillsborough County. This 15-year-old defendant will be facing adult charges because he made an adult decision with a firearm,” State Attorney Suzy Lopez said. “It breaks our hearts to see another young person lost to gun violence. We will stand with the victim’s family to ensure the person responsible for his death is held accountable.”

Detectives learned that there was an altercation between two groups of teenage boys after a planned “slapboxing” event in the parking garage, HCSO said. After the event, the teens shook hands and parted ways.

A short time later, though, individuals from both groups met up again outside the mall and a fight broke out. Shots were fired during this fight, killing a minor involved.

After an investigation, detectives arrested Oquendo for his involvement in the shooting, the sheriff’s office said.

“I’m proud of our detectives for their work and determination in finding the person responsible for this tragic act. Their dedication is bringing the individual responsible for this senseless act to justice," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "There is no excuse for a teenager to have access to a weapon. It is our responsibility as parents to hold them accountable before it’s too late. Parents, please have those important conversations with your children. Make them understand the consequences of their actions, especially when it comes to firearms."