TAMPA, Fla — The Tampa Police Department is investigating what led to a shooting Thursday night in Southeast Seminole Heights. But a lack of information from people living in the area might prove difficult for the investigation.
“We don’t have much information period,” Chief Brian Dugan said during a Friday press conference.
Officers say it began with multiple gunshots on East Palifox Street near North 12th Street. When they arrived, police found multiple people shot in the area.
Two men were dead at the scene. Four other people were taken to nearby hospitals with serious injuries.
At this time, detectives say those shot at were hanging out together on a front porch when the gunfire started. It is believed that the group returned fire.
The police department also said multiple cars and houses where innocent families live were struck by gunfire that night. The reason for the shooting? Dugan speculated it could have been retaliatory because the department is seeing incidents pop-up from neighborhood "beefs."
Nobody has been arrested at this time, but detectives are working to get to the root of the issue and they need your help.
"Were hoping somebody in the community can come forward, give us some information so we can take these people off the street," a department spokesperson said. They also called the situation "extremely concerning" and something the police department cannot allow to happen in its city.
Anyone with information should call the Tampa Police Department at 813-276-3200.
This is a developing story. Check back with 10 Tampa Bay for updates.
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