HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION
LAKELAND, FL (July 3, 2022) - On Saturday, July 2, 2022, at approximately 4:47 p.m., uniform patrol officers responded to the Big Oaks Apartments, located at 1586 Big Oaks Drive, in reference to a shooting. On scene, officers located a 24-year-old male victim inside an apartment with a gunshot wound. Officers immediately began securing the location and rendering aid until emergency medical responders from Lakeland Fire Department and Polk County Fire Rescue arrived. The victim was transported to Lakeland Regional Health, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Detectives responded to the scene and began processing evidence and interviewing potential witnesses, including the multiple people who shared the apartment. While it is very early in the investigation, this does not appear to be a random act.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Troy Smith at 863.834.8958 or troy.smith@lakelandgov.net.
Or if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida:
- Call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477)
- From your cell phone, dial **TIPS
- Or visit the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on "Submit A Tip,"
- Or download the free "P3tips" app on your smartphone or tablet.
Tipsters will always remain anonymous when sending a tip through Crime Stoppers and could be eligible for a cash reward if the information leads to an arrest.
The name of the victim is being withheld in accordance with Marsy's Law. There is no additional information available at this time. When available, additional information will be provided via media release.