The Sanford Police Department is investigating two shooting incidents that left three teens wounded on Monday.
At around 3 p.m. on Monday, 16-year-old Tyshawn Ellison arrived at a local hospital for treatment of an apparent gunshot wound to his leg, according to Sanford police.
The police department conducted an investigation and learned that Ellison was walking near the intersection of 9th Street and Holly Avenue when the occupants of a dark in color sedan began shooting at him.
Ellison told officers that he was able to run to a family member’s home, which was nearby. A relative then took him to the hospital.
Four hours later, shortly before 7 p.m., SPD officers responded to the 100 block of Scott Drive in reference to a shooting incident with injuries. Upon arrival, they located two 17-year-old victims.
The first victim, identified as Layla Bennett, had sustained an apparent gunshot wound to her head. She was rushed to a local hospital, where she remains in critical condition.
The second victim, Jalaysia Hunter, sustained an unspecified injury that was deemed “minor.”
According to SPD, officers learned that Bennett and Hunter were standing in front of a residence located in the 100 block of Scott Drive when a red SUV drove past them. Occupants who were inside the vehicle then proceeded to open fire.
No further details were provided by Sanford police.
On Tuesday afternoon, the Sanford Police Department stated that in response to the recent shootings, all patrol staffing levels have been increased. In addition, officers are conducting enforcement, targeting areas associated with the investigations.
“We are exhausting all efforts in investigating these shootings and preventing any additional shootings,” stated Deputy Chief Trekelle Perkins. “I can’t emphasize enough that stopping this violence cannot be done by law enforcement alone. We need full cooperation from the victims and witnesses. That means talking with investigators, providing them the evidence they ask for such as cellphones, and providing statements. Working together is how ‘WE’ create a safe community.”
Investigators are asking anyone with information about these shooting incidents or the individual(s) involved to please contact the Sanford Police Department at 407-688-5070.
Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can contact the Central Florida Crimeline by calling 1-800-423-TIPS(8477) or clicking here to submit an online report.