Suspect Arrested in Shooting at South Tamiami Trail Arcade

A suspect has been arrested in connection with a shooting that occurred last month at an arcade on South Tamiami Trail, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigators said 39-year-old Markus Jackson faces charges of armed robbery, aggravated battery with a firearm and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Deputies said the incident happened on April 20 shortly before 6 a.m. at Mega Arcade, located at 7321 South Tamiami Trail. Authorities said Jackson allegedly entered the business wearing a mask and demanded cash from customers at gunpoint.

According to investigators, one customer refused to hand over cash and struggled with Jackson. During the confrontation, deputies said the victim was shot multiple times at close range.

The sheriff’s office said the arcade’s on-duty manager retrieved a handgun from an office and fired one shot at Jackson as he fled the business, but the shot did not strike him.

Jackson was arrested on May 7 in Sarasota and remains in custody at the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

The shooting victim continues recovering at a local hospital. Detectives said the investigation remains ongoing.