Two subjects are in custody after one pointed a gun and the other fired a gun at two Tampa Police Officers.
On Sunday, March 26, the two officers were on patrol in the 300 block of Gould Ct. at 5:16 PM when they heard gunshots near the Robles Park Apartments. The officers began to approach a group when one subject, later identified as 20-year-old black male Jabari Murphy (11/27/2002), aimed a gun at the officers and then fled on foot. The second subject, later identified as 15-year-old black male Raimon J Malone (6/25/2007), took aim at the officers and fired before fleeing on foot.
The officers, who were not injured and did not return fire, chased, and quickly apprehended both suspects. Officers recovered both weapons, a revolver and a semi-automatic handgun.
“These officers were protecting a community and came under fire. This could have resulted in a very different and tragic outcome. I am extremely thankful that our officers were not injured,” said Interim Chief Lee Bercaw. “I have already spoken with our State Attorney, Suzy Lopez, who has assured me her office will see these suspects prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I, once again, appeal to every member of our community to help us keep guns out of the hands of those who should not have them, especially juveniles.”
Murphy has been charged with Aggravated Assault, Armed in the Commission of a Felony, and Carrying a Concealed Weapon. He was transported to Orient Road Jail.
Malone has been charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault, Armed in the Commission of a Felony, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, and Minor in Possession of a Weapon. He was transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center.