The Tampa Police Department is currently investigating an incident involving officers that occurred on January 17, 2023 at 5:41 p.m. Three plainclothes officers from TPD’s Street Anti-Crime (SAC) squad were on proactive patrol in the 3600 block of 54th Street when the shooting took place. They were in an unmarked vehicle at the time of the incident.
As the officers drove southbound on 54th Street, there was a group of individuals gathered outside a home. One of the individuals, a black male, shot toward officers. A bullet struck the front of their vehicle, causing minor damage to it. Officers did not fire back.
“I am grateful the officers involved tonight were not injured as a result of the dangerous actions by this suspect,” said Interim Chief Lee Bercaw. “This is just one example of the unforeseen circumstances our personnel face every single day. Detectives are actively working leads and interviewing neighbors to identify and eventually arrest the shooter. I urge anyone who has information to come forward with it so justice can be served. No tip is ever too small.”
Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact the Tampa Police Department at (813) 231-6130. To be eligible for a cash reward, call Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477). You can also report anonymously online at www.crimestopperstb.com, or send a tip using their P3 Tips mobile app, which is free to download on both iOS and Android devices.
This remains an active investigation. Any further information will be released from TPD’s Public Information Office via press release.