Tampa Police announced they have identified and arrested the suspect who shot at officers on January 17, 2023.
The incident occurred at around 5:41 p.m. when three Street Anti-Crime (SAC) officers were conducting a proactive patrol in an unmarked vehicle in the 3600 block of 54th Street. The officers noticed a group of individuals gathered outside a home, when the suspect shot at their car, causing minimal damage. The group dispersed and the suspect, along with other individuals, fled the scene on foot. The officers were unharmed and did not fire back.
Through investigative means and with the help of neighbors and community members who came forward with information, detectives were able to identify and arrest the suspect. Deontae Boatwright, aged 16, faces three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. A firearm was located at a nearby home where the suspect attempted to conceal it. Another individual, who was with Boatwright when officers arrested him, was found to have active warrants in his name. Ozyia Norwood, aged 17, faces charges of aggravated battery great bodily harm firearm – great bodily harm/death, robbery with a firearm, and attempted murder in the first degree, unrelated to yesterday’s shooting. Norwood was also found to be in possession of another firearm. Detectives interviewed an additional two individuals who were found not to be involved in the shooting.
“Within hours of the shooting, detectives were able to identify and arrest those involved, thanks to the assistance we received from concerned neighbors,” said Interim Chief Lee Bercaw. “This pertinent information, along with surveillance video located in the nearby area, allowed officers to quickly take the shooter into custody. I commend all those who came forward and heeded the message we cannot repeat enough in law enforcement: if you see something, say something. I hope this incident shows just how much we can accomplish when we all work together. Today, two guns are off the street, and the community is more at ease, thanks to the partnership from concerned neighbors who came forward with information that led to the arrests overnight.”