West Park, Florida – Detectives from the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) Violent Crimes Unit are requesting the public’s help in identifying and locating a suspect involved in a shooting incident that unfolded at Mary Saunders Park in West Park and left two individuals injured. The incident has prompted authorities to offer a reward for crucial information leading to the arrest of the perpetrator.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred at around 10 p.m. on Friday, April 12, when BSO deputies along with Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue were dispatched following reports of a shooting at the park located at 4750 S.W. 21st Street. Upon arrival, emergency responders found a juvenile female with multiple gunshot wounds and an adult male who had been shot once. Both victims were quickly transported to Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood, where they were treated for their non-life-threatening injuries.
According to law enforcement officials, the shooting took place during a prearranged fight involving students from the same high school. The conflict was reportedly part of an ongoing disagreement that had originated at their school. Surveillance footage captured a blue sedan arriving at the park’s parking lot shortly before the altercation. A female exited the passenger side while the gathering of juveniles ensued, escalating into a physical fight.
Shooting and Aftermath
During the fight, an unidentified male suspect, believed to have emerged from the driver’s side of the blue sedan, brandished a rifle and fired several rounds into the crowd of minors involved in the brawl. The suspect, along with the female who had earlier exited the vehicle, quickly re-entered the sedan and fled the scene, leaving chaos and fear behind.
Investigators noted that the shooting was streamed live on social media, which could potentially widen the scope of evidence and witnesses.
Community Response and Call for Tips
The BSO is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for any information that directly leads to the apprehension of the suspects involved in this incident. Detective Allison Craven-Swan of the BSO Violent Crimes Unit is spearheading the investigation and can be reached at 954-321-4384 for any pertinent information.
For those preferring to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through the SaferWatch App, Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477), online at browardcrimestoppers.org, or by dialing **TIPS (8477) from any cellphone in the United States.