TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Police Department is leading an effort to increase law enforcement visibility in Ybor City tonight through Sunday — the first weekend after a deadly shooting claimed two lives on Oct. 29.
In addition to being in patrol cars in the area of 7th Avenue, officers will be patrolling on foot, bike and horseback all weekend long. Police will also be joined by Hillsborough County deputies and Florida Highway Patrol troopers to ensure the crowd's safety.
"We understand that the feeling of being safe is a priority for our community," Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said. "That is why we are committed to increasing the visibility of law enforcement in Ybor during the peak hours of activity. We believe this will help people feel more secure and allow them to enjoy their time here without fear or worry."
Bercaw will be at Hotel Haya in Ybor City starting at 8 p.m. Saturday. Community members are welcome to join him for a discussion or cup of coffee before he begins patrolling the area with his officers.
As police work to help the community feel more secure, they are continuing to investigate the shooting that left a 14-year-old and 20-year-old dead and 16 others injured.
The shooting happened during an altercation between two groups just after 2:45 a.m. Sunday on East 7th Avenue near North 17th Street.
Tyrell Phillips, 22, was taken into custody on Sunday, Oct. 29, after turning himself in. On Friday, he pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder with a firearm.
Police are searching for potentially two more gunmen in connection to the deadly shooting. The department has partnered with the FBI to set up a site specifically to submit tips on the Ybor City shooting.
"Our thoughts remain with all those affected by the senseless act of violence that occurred Sunday morning," Bercaw added. "We are doing everything in our power to bring everyone who was involved to justice, and we are asking for the community's assistance. If anyone has any information that could help us in our investigation, please do not hesitate to share that information with investigators so we can provide justice for the victims."