Tampa Police detectives have arrested 21-year-old Dwayne Tillman, Jr. and charged him in connection with the October 29 shooting that left two dead and 16 injured.
“It should be clear to anyone at this point that if you participate in criminal activity, you will be arrested, you will be prosecuted, and justice will be found for those who suffered from your actions,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “This additional arrest is another demonstration of our commitment to holding criminals accountable and I can only hope it provides a small sense of closure for the families of all those who have been impacted.”
During the ongoing investigation, detectives determined that Tillman arrived in the Ybor City area, along with Elijah Wilson, Kayden Abney, and other mutual associates. Tillman was dressed in a black knit cap, a black tee shirt, black pants, and green/black shoes. Tillman, Abney, and their associates later became involved in a disturbance with Phillips and his associates. After Phillips shot Wilson, Tillman was seen running before turning and firing a handgun as Phillips ran away.
On December 7, Tillman was arrested and charged with Attempted Murder with a Firearm, and Attempted Aggravated Battery with Great Bodily Harm (Firearm).
“I commend the Tampa Police Department for their relentless efforts in finding those responsible for these senseless shootings,” said Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez. “When this defendant opened fire on historic 7th Avenue, he put hundreds of lives in danger. Anyone who shows that type of disregard for human life should face serious consequences.”
This is the third arrest in connection with the fatal events of October 29, 2023.
22-year-old Tyrell Phillips was taken into custody hours after the shooting and charged with 2nd Degree Murder for his role in the fatal shootings.
Kayden Abney, 14, was arrested on November 16, and charged with Minor in Possession of a Firearm While Wearing a Mask, and Carrying a Concealed Firearm. On December 6, Abney was also charged with 2nd Degree Murder, Attempted Aggravated Battery, and Attempted Murder.
State and federal law enforcement partners have supplemented the Crimestoppers of Tampa Bay's original reward of $5,000, raising the current total to $27,000. (FDLE added $5,000; ATF added $5,000, FBI added $12,000).
The Tampa Police Department remains committed to holding all those involved accountable, and this remains an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to submit their tip via the online portal at fbi.gov/TampaShooting.