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St. Petersburg Reels From Violent Week with Two Arrested in Separate Fatal Shootings as Clearwater and St. Pete Police Urge Witnesses to Come Forward

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Published on November 23, 2024
St. Petersburg Reels From Violent Week with Two Arrested in Separate Fatal Shootings as Clearwater and St. Pete Police Urge Witnesses to Come ForwardSource: Google Street View

A string of violence has gripped St. Petersburg, with police actively investigating two fatal shootings that have left the community seeking answers. As reported by WFLA, Anthony Jamal Wright, 28, has been arrested in connection with a deadly incident occurring last Thursday at Three Brothers Market. Officials have charged Wright with second-degree murder after a 34-year-old man was found shot dead on the scene.

Another shooting in Clearwater has led to the arrest of Aaron Michael Bender, 24. Bender faces a first-degree murder charge following a drug-related confrontation that resulted in the death of Marlon Carswell, who succumbed to his injuries at St. Joseph's Hospital. The Tampa Bay Times states that the shooting took place last weekend on Vine Avenue.

Meanwhile, within St. Petersburg, another shooting unfolded overnight yesterday, per a report from WTSP. The victim, identified as 31-year-old Justin Baumgardner, was discovered alongside Jefferson Circle North with a fatal gunshot wound. He was taken to the hospital but later pronounced dead. The police's preliminary investigation suggested that the two men were acquainted, but no further details on the motivation were disclosed.

Authorities urge anyone with information regarding these shootings to come forward and contribute to the ongoing investigations. Those with information can contact the St. Petersburg Police Department directly.

Tampa-Crime & Emergencies