Homicide Investigation
*****UPDATE*****
Lakeland, FL (March 6, 2026) - An arrest has been made in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred early Thursday morning, March 5, 2026. Kevin Lamont Reed Jr., has been charged with Second Degree Murder and Tampering with Physical Evidence. Reed was taken into custody at his residence on March 5, 2026, at approximately 10:00 p.m.
At approximately 12:35 a.m. on March 5, 2026, a shooting occurred in the parking lot of Wally's Poolhall, located at 1136 East Main Street. Officers responded to find 48-year-old Steven Michael Magee laying on the sidewalk, unconscious and having suffered several gunshot wounds. Magee was transported to Lakeland Regional Health, where he later succumbed to his injuries despite the best efforts of medical professionals.
Based on evidence gathered thus far in the investigation, detectives have learned that prior to the shooting, Reed had been inside Wally's with two other females. Magee also was inside the establishment during this same period, however, the two never made contact while inside. Reed and the two females went outside of the business shortly after midnight and Magee walked outside around 12:28 a.m.
At some point, a disagreement ensued between the two men and according to witness statements, one of the females tried to hold Reed back while they argued. Magee started backing away with his hands up, appearing to attempt to deescalate the argument, but Reed followed and pushed him. Reed then turned around as if he was going to leave, however, within a few steps, turned back around, drew a handgun and fired multiple rounds at Magee. Magee then drew his own weapon and returned fire as he was falling to the ground. Reed then fled the scene in a vehicle.
Officers located a handgun near Magee when they arrived which was secured as evidence. While taking Reed into custody, detectives were able to locate a firearm believed to be used in the crime and are having it tested. This case remains an active investigation.
*****ORIGINAL RELEASE*****
Lakeland, FL (March 5, 2026) – Detectives with the Lakeland Police Department are investigating a shooting which occurred early Thursday morning outside of Wally’s Poolhall, located at 1136 East Main Street, Lakeland, Florida.
Based on witness statements and evidence located at the scene, the incident occurred around 12:35 a.m. on March 5, 2026, when an argument occurred between two patrons outside of the business. One of the participants pulled a handgun and shot at the other. The victim then pulled his own handgun and returned fire. It is unknown if the suspect was struck during the volley.
The 48-year-old victim was identified as Steven Michael Magee. Arriving officers immediately began life saving measures and Magee was transported to Lakeland Regional Health, where he later succumbed to his injuries despite the best efforts of medical professionals.
This case remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Jaime Smith at 863-834-8981 or jaime.smith@lakelandgov.net.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Media inquiries should be directed to mediarelations@lakelandgov.net