Wimauma Fishermen Dive For Cover As Shots Ring Out On Lake

A quiet night of fishing at Lake Wimauma turned chaotic Monday when, according to deputies, a Wimauma man opened fire on four people out on the water. No one was hit, but the 60-year-old suspect was arrested the next day at his home, and the case is now sitting squarely in felony territory.

Arrest and Charges

In a post on HCSO, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as 60-year-old Leo Palacios. Deputies say they were notified at 8:07 p.m. Monday that Palacios had fired multiple shots at four people who were fishing on Lake Wimauma. No injuries were reported, and deputies say Palacios was later taken into custody at his residence.

The sheriff’s office announced a long list of felony charges: four counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, firearm (discharge); four counts of attempted second-degree murder, firearm (discharge); discharge of a firearm in public or on residential property; and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Legal Context

Under Florida Statutes §790.23, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is treated as a serious felony, separate from any alleged use of the weapon. Discharging a firearm in public is also prohibited under chapter 790. If prosecutors secure convictions, the penalties can be significant, and attempted second-degree murder is among the most severe charges the state can file short of a completed homicide.

Prosecutors with the State Attorney’s Office will review the case and the charging decisions as the investigation moves forward.

Investigation Ongoing

According to the sheriff’s office, Palacios was arrested at his residence, and investigators are continuing to work the case. Details on booking, bond, and upcoming court dates were not included in the initial announcement. This story will be updated as authorities release additional information.