Teen Arrested For Attempted Murder In Tampa Shooting

TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Police have arrested 16-year-old Andre Zakanya James in connection with a shooting that occurred on November 26, 2024.

The shooting took place around 1:00 PM in the 2100 block of W Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. The victim, a teenage male, was struck in the upper body and transported to a local hospital where he remains under treatment.

Through surveillance footage, police determined that Zakanya had been waiting in a nearby alley. As the victim walked by, Zakanya approached and fired a single shot, striking the victim. The firearm then jammed, preventing further shots. Zakanya fled the scene on foot but was later apprehended by Tampa Police.

Zakanya has been charged with Attempted First-Degree Murder (Premeditated) and Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

“There’s nothing more alarming than a blatant disregard for another person’s life,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Violence in our community and amongst juveniles will not be tolerated. I’m appreciative of all the hard work our detectives and officers did in less than 24 hours that led to this quick arrest. It is also due in part to the everyday efforts of officers assigned to juvenile checks that work to keep those with extensive criminal histories accountable.”

Detectives are still investigating what led to the incident and how both parties are known to each other.

Correction: The single shot struck the victim, who is being treated at a local hospital.

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