ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Fourteen-year-old Gaige Santos-Brown tragically lost his life Thursday evening following a shooting in south St. Petersburg, while 16-year-old Kenneth Washington has now been arrested and charged with felony murder in connection with the deadly incident, according to police.
Authorities said the shooting occurred shortly after 6:30 p.m. in the 4200 block of 15th Avenue South. Investigators revealed that Gaige was approached by three other teenagers outside in broad daylight before gunfire erupted in the area.
Emergency responders rushed the injured teen to Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Overnight, St. Petersburg Police announced the arrest of Kenneth Washington, who is also facing a charge for violation of supervised release. Detectives say the investigation remains active, and authorities are still working to identify and locate two additional suspects believed to have been involved in the confrontation.
The tragic shooting has left the St. Petersburg community devastated as loved ones mourn the loss of a young life cut short by violence. Community members say the incident has shaken families throughout the area, highlighting the growing concerns surrounding youth violence and firearm-related crimes involving teenagers.
Police emphasized that the ripple effects of the shooting extend far beyond the crime scene, impacting multiple families and an entire community now forced to grieve unimaginable loss and trauma.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the remaining suspects to contact the St. Petersburg Police Department at 727-893-7780. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by texting “SPPD” along with information to TIP411.
The investigation into the fatal shooting remains ongoing.
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