43-Year-Old Woman Killed in Bradenton as Gunfire Erupts; Homicide Investigation Launched
The Bradenton Police Department and the Manatee Homicide Task Force are investigating two shootings on Tuesday night that tragically claimed the life of a 43-year-old woman caught in the crossfire. Authorities are now working to identify suspects in the pair of violent incidents, which shook the east side of Bradenton and left a community grieving.
The first shooting, which took place around 6:00 p.m. on November 12, occurred in the 2400 block of 8th Avenue E. Police reports indicate that the suspect or suspects fired at least ten rounds, damaging nearby homes and vehicles. Although this initial incident caused significant property damage, no injuries were reported.
Just over an hour later, a second shooting was reported at approximately 7:30 p.m. in the 2100 block of 15th Avenue E. The shooter or shooters fired more than 30 rounds, striking the victim as she arrived home from grocery shopping. She was inside her vehicle when she was hit by the gunfire. Responding officers rendered immediate emergency assistance until EMS arrived and transported her to the hospital. Despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to her injuries overnight.
Authorities have confirmed that the woman was not the intended target. Detectives from the Bradenton Police Department and the Manatee Homicide Task Force worked throughout the night to collect evidence and analyze surveillance footage to identify suspects and any vehicles involved in the shootings.
The investigation remains active as law enforcement continues to pursue leads. Detectives urge anyone with information about the incidents to contact Detective Brian Sands at brian.sands@bradentonpd.com or 941-932-9312 or Detective Jeff Beckley at jeff.beckley@bradentonpd.com or 941-932-9356. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips through Crime Stoppers at manateecrimestoppers.com, with rewards of up to $3,000 available for information leading to an arrest.
This tragic event underscores the ongoing issue of gun violence and its indiscriminate effects on innocent lives. Bradenton officials and community members are rallying together, calling for justice and a renewed focus on public safety in the wake of the victim’s senseless death.