Tallahassee police announced on Monday, October 26, that a 15-year-old boy has been arrested and charged in connection with a mass shooting near Florida A&M University's Bragg Memorial Stadium that injured 12 people following the school's homecoming football game. Police identified the suspect as Anthony Rivers III, who faces 11 counts of attempted second-degree murder and one count of possession of a firearm by a delinquent.
The charges were filed after consultation with the State Attorney's Office. The incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. Saturday near Perry and Manatee streets, just behind the stadium, as crowds were leaving the homecoming celebration following Florida A&M's loss to Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
Eleven people were struck by gunfire, and one person suffered an ankle injury while fleeing. Six of the victims were minors, including an 11-year-old, and at least three suffered serious injuries.
No deaths were reported. According to preliminary findings, a fight broke out before shots were fired, and detectives believe the incident stemmed from a dispute between individuals who knew each other.
Police stated that none of the victims appear to have been intended targets. Police Chief Lawrence remarked, "What should have been a weekend of celebration in our community instead became a night of fear and violence for the victims and their families." He added, "While this arrest marks a significant step forward, our work is far from over."
By Sunday morning, five victims had been released from the hospital, while six remained hospitalized, one in critical condition. Authorities said the investigation remains open and additional arrests are possible.
Police credited community tips and video submissions as vital to identifying the suspect. University President Marva Johnson said the school had reached out to injured members of the community, while Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey called the shooting "a truly horrific and heartbreaking tragedy."
The local community has expressed shock over the violence, with many calling for increased security measures at future public events. The university has pledged to cooperate fully with law enforcement to ensure the safety of its students and visitors.
As the legal process begins, the State Attorney's Office is reviewing evidence to determine if further charges will be brought against the suspect or any potential accomplices. The community remains on high alert as the investigation continues.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing challenges regarding gun violence in public spaces. Local officials are expected to hold a town hall meeting later this week to discuss community safety and violence prevention strategies.