What started as routine door-to-door sales work at a gated townhome complex south of Brandon on Wednesday night ended with gunfire, a trip to the hospital and an arrest, according to deputies. Investigators say a solicitor was shot multiple times in the lower body and transported to a nearby hospital, while 38-year-old Reginald McGee was taken into custody at the scene.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office says deputies responded around 8 p.m. to reports of shots fired near Fluorshire Drive at the Providence Townhomes. When they arrived, they found a male solicitor suffering from several gunshot wounds to his lower body. In an online update, the agency said the suspect came outside armed and was arrested after a confrontation with the workers. The initial information was shared by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies Describe the Confrontation
In its post, the sheriff's office says McGee "became verbally aggressive toward the female coworker" before things escalated. As the two workers walked away, deputies say he "attacked the male victim" and then fired the weapon, striking the solicitor multiple times, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. Officials have not yet released details about a possible motive or what specific charges McGee may face. The investigation remains ongoing.
What the Law Says About Door-to-Door Sales
Under Florida law, most home-solicitation sales of more than $25 require a permit, and buyers are generally given a three-day window to cancel. The rules are meant to shield residents from high-pressure pitches or fraudulent sales at their doorstep. The Hillsborough County Clerk's office handles home-solicitation permits and outlines how residents can check whether a solicitor is properly credentialed. For more on the requirements, see the Florida Senate and the Hillsborough County Clerk.
What Neighbors Should Know
The shooting highlights how quickly tensions between residents and door-to-door workers can flare inside residential complexes. Authorities advise residents who encounter aggressive or suspicious behavior to steer clear of direct confrontation, note key identifying details and contact local law enforcement. Permits and company information can be checked through the county clerk's home-solicitation portal.
As of now, the sheriff's office has not released formal charging documents in the case. Officials say detectives are continuing to gather evidence and will release more information as the investigation moves forward.
