The community of Unincorporated St. Petersburg grapples with a tragic incident, as detectives from the Homicide & Robbery Unit delve into the details of an accidental shooting that occurred over the weekend.
On the evening of July 21, deputies rushed to a residence on 49th Avenue North following a call regarding a shooting. Upon their arrival, 50-year-old Kevin Bishop was discovered with a fatal gunshot wound to the chest. The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office reports that William Tompkins, Bishop's 57-year-old roommate, was also present at the scene. Prior to the tragic turn of events, both men had been consuming alcohol while perusing Bishop's collection of firearms, which he assured were not loaded.
The ongoing investigation shed light on a grim picture where Tompkins, and Bishop, both pointed weapons at themselves and each other, pulling the triggers without discharge. Eventually, a Glock 21 initially handled by Tompkins discharged unexpectedly as Bishop took hold of the firearm, resulting in the critical injury.
Following the shooting, Tompkins exited the residence, and made the call to 911. Bishop was subsequently transported to the hospital, only to be pronounced dead shortly after his arrival. "Next of Kin was notified," the authorities stated, marking the procedural close to a life abruptly ended. The Sheriff's Office has yet to conclude its investigation into this matter.
Incidents such as these stir conversations within the community about firearm safety and the grave consequences that can arise from negligence, especially when alcohol is involved. The reality for those affected continues to unfold as local law enforcement works to piece together the nuances of this accidental tragedy.
