Tragedy struck early on New Year's Day at James Weldon Johnson Park in Downtown Jacksonville as gunfire interrupted celebrations, leaving a boy with a gunshot wound to the leg. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office reported the incident occurred approximately an hour after midnight when revelers were still gathered following the fireworks show.
An off-duty officer was alerted when individuals at the park signaled for assistance after the shooting, which took place around 1 a.m. During a brief argument, two groups clashed resulting in at least two shooters opening fire. The boy, who was injured, is not believed to be connected to either group, according to News4Jax and Action News. In the commotion of bullets being fired at the City Hall on New Year's Eve, no one got hurt.
The boy received medical attention after being shot in the left leg and his injuries are not expected to be life-threatening. JSO Sergeant Smith stated that the boy "was caught in the crossfire," as detailed in an interview with First Coast News. The Sheriff's Office is actively investigating the shooting and has reported cooperation from two witnesses so far.
While no arrests have been made, the police continue to search for more information and potential surveillance footage that may have captured the incident. Sergeant Smith mentioned "We're still working on the suspect description at this time," highlighting the ongoing nature of the investigation. Community members with knowledge of the shooting are encouraged by the JSO to come forward with any information. This request was echoed in an article by First Coast News.
To provide details or offer assistance to the investigation, individuals may contact the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office at 904-630-0500, email [email protected], or anonymously reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
