Tampa Police are investigating a shooting that occurred early Sunday morning at a downtown night club.
Just before 3AM on October 9, 2022, officers responded to the report of shots fired near the LIT Cigar & Martini Lounge at 908 N Franklin St. Officers arrived to find one adult male victim deceased on scene from an apparent gunshot wound. Six additional gunshot victims, four adult males and two adult females, were transported to nearby hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.
A preliminary investigation suggests that a verbal altercation occurred between two large parties inside the lounge. The parties were escorted outside, where the altercation escalated when at least one suspect went to a vehicle to retrieve a gun and fired multiple shots.
Detectives are currently working with witnesses to develop leads in the case. No arrests have been made as of yet.
"This is senseless violence. There's no reason why anyone should lose their life over a fight at a bar," said Chief Mary O'Connor. "We are working diligently to follow up on leads and find those responsible."
Anyone with information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspect or suspects involved is asked to contact the Tampa Police Department by calling 813-231-6130. Tips can be sent via TIP411 through the TampaPD app. For those wishing to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers of Tampa Bay.