A 15-year-old has been detained and charged with the shooting death of 16-year-old Peter "PJ" Hyman Jr. at the Citrus Park Town Center Mall, a grim conclusion to what began as a "slapboxing" event. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reported that the altercation escalated when two groups, which had earlier engaged in a non-lethal bout, encountered each other once more outside the mall, leading to a fight and the subsequent shooting, as detailed by FOX 13 News.

The suspect, Samuel Oquendo, is now facing charges of second-degree murder, minor in possession of a firearm, and carrying a concealed weapon. According to authorities and state officials, despite his youthful age, Oquendo will be prosecuted as an adult due to the gravity of the offense. As stated by State Attorney Suzy Lopez, and quoted by 10 Tampa Bay, "This 15-year-old defendant will be facing adult charges because he made an adult decision with a firearm."

The deadly incident has raised concerns over youth violence and firearm accessibility. In a statement reported by FOX 13 News, Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized the importance of parental responsibility in preventing such tragedies. "There is no excuse for a teenager to have access to a weapon," Chronister said, "It is our responsibility as parents to hold them accountable before it’s too late."

Detectives assigned to the case praised the swift arrest of the accused teen, who was apprehended on the evening of September 19. Sheriff Chronister expressed his approval for the investigative team's determination, stressing their crucial role in securing justice for Hyman. "Their dedication is bringing the individual responsible for this senseless act to justice," he told WFLA News.