Police are trying to get back in touch with two females who previously gave them vehicle information after last week's shooting of a 14-year-old who was walking alone near East Cayuga Street and North 31st Street in Tampa.
According to investigators, the two females were walking with a small child when a vehicle nearly struck them around the time of the shooting. Now, Tampa police think the duo may be able to provide more information about that near-crash, which could help with the shooting investigation.
The shooting victim, De'Nico Thomas, was still in grave condition on Thursday. Thomas was walking home from playing video games with friends when he was shot shortly before midnight on June 20.
“Someone is going to want to blame the victim and ask why he was out at midnight. That is completely irrelevant,” Chief Brian Dugan said in a statement. “Something we need to do as a police department, the media, and society is stop blaming the victims. We need to stand up and say the violence is enough and put an end to it.”
If you know the two females who could help the police investigation, please call 813-276-3230. If you have any information about the shooting itself, please call Crime Stoppers at 800-873-TIPS. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000.
