What was meant to be a fun-filled Halloween weekend in Ybor City turned deadly with two losses of life and a 22-year-old, Tyrell Phillips, now facing charges of 2nd-degree murder with a firearm.
Timeline of Events
The shooting took place in the early morning hours at 3 a.m. on October 29th in Centro Ybor as the bars and nightclubs that line 7th Avenue began closing after a busy Saturday night. An argument between two groups turned deadly as the night air was punctuated by gunfire.
More than 50 Tampa police officers were in the vicinity when the shooting occurred, as Ybor City, one of Tampa’s popular entertainment districts, is a frequent site of gun violence. On busy nights, like Halloween, law enforcement is stationed at every major intersection. They were able to respond to the scene in seconds.
- Eighteen people were shot as hundreds of costumed bystanders fled, trying to avoid the bullets. Two males, a 14-year-old and a 22-year-old were killed. Though their names were not announced publicly by police, the 14-year-old victim has been identified by his family as Elijah Wilson.
- As of late Sunday afternoon, Tampa police announced that five of the 15 victims were still in the hospital with serious injuries, but they were expected to recover.
- Two handguns were recovered at the scene, but one has been stolen and police are investigating whether other shooters were involved.
- While officers helped victims at the scene, Phillps approached an officer and admitted to firing the gun. They found a loaded Glock 10mm pistol in his front pocket.
The Charges
Tyrell Stephen Phillips is facing a charge of second-degree murder with a firearm. Due to a motion filed by prosecutors, Judge Caroline Tesche Akin has ordered that he remain in custody until a Thursday hearing.
Phillips’ pre-trial detention hearing is scheduled for Thursday, November 2nd.
The investigation into the shooting and those involved is currently ongoing.
Firearms Crimes & Penalties
In Florida, firearms crime penalties are among the harshest in the nation. Possessing an illegal firearm alone can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines and years of imprisonment. However, it is the use of a firearm during the commission of a crime that escalates these penalties to an entirely new level.
When it comes to 2nd-degree murder charges in Florida, sentencing guidelines take into account various factors such as prior criminal record and circumstances surrounding the offense. While 2nd-degree murder is not premeditated, it still involves an intentional act resulting in death.
In Florida, those convicted of 2nd-degree murder face up to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or probation.
Now, Tyrell Phillips could face lifetime imprisonment at the young age of 22. His entire life will be forever changed by a split-second decision that could have been avoided.
Read More > Florida Weapons & Firearms Crimes
Skilled Firearm Defense
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Your future is worth fighting for. Don’t hesitate to contact Stechschulte Nell Law today at 813-240-1244 for a consultation.
