Crime
18-year-old Geary Lynch dead after shot in head in Escambia County
A 16-year-old male, who was also involved in the incident, sustained what deputies initially believed to be a gunshot wound to the leg.
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation after a shooting on Monday night left one teenager dead and another injured.
Authorities responded to reports of gunfire in the 7900 block of Rouse Drive around 6:16 p.m. Deputies arrived on the scene shortly thereafter, at approximately 6:20 p.m.
Tragically, an 18-year-old male, identified by a friend as Geary Lynch, suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Lynch, a young father, was pronounced dead at the scene.
A 16-year-old male, who was also involved in the incident, sustained what deputies initially believed to be a gunshot wound to the leg. However, it was later determined that the injury was road rash, likely caused during the chaotic events surrounding the shooting.
Preliminary investigations suggest the incident stemmed from an argument between the two teens and individuals in a vehicle.
During the altercation, the suspects fired at the teens before fleeing the scene.
Additionally, deputies reported finding a stolen firearm in the possession of the 16-year-old during the investigation.
At this time, no arrests have been made, and investigators are actively working to identify and apprehend the suspects responsible.
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be reported by contacting the ECSO directly or through Crime Stoppers.
This incident highlights the urgent need for community cooperation in addressing violence and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
BARTOW, FL — Authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred at 120 Polk Street East in Bartow.
The incident resulted in three individuals sustaining gunshot wounds, including a Bartow Police Department (BPD) officer, a public safety aide (PSA) officer, and the suspect involved.
Emergency medical services were immediately requested at the scene to provide critical aid to all three gunshot victims.
The conditions of the injured individuals have not yet been released.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation.
Law enforcement officials have secured the area as forensic teams and investigators begin processing the scene.
Additional information, including the identities of those involved and any potential charges, is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
Authorities are asking the public to avoid the area and allow emergency crews to continue their response efforts without obstruction.