TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — An 18-year-old has been arrested months after a deadly shooting at a Tallahassee parking garage that killed one teenager and injured two others.
The Tallahassee Police Department arrested 18-year-old Jeray Ellis Jr. following an extensive investigation into the May 24 shooting at a parking garage at 411 Chapel Drive. Police said the shooting killed 18-year-old Gavin Yates-Lyons and injured two other people.
The investigation began just before 5 a.m. May 24, when officers heard gunfire coming from the area of Chapel Drive and Call Street. When officers arrived, they found multiple areas of the parking garage with evidence that a shooting had occurred, police said.
Three victims were taken to a local hospital. Police said Yates-Lyons suffered life-threatening injuries and died May 30. The other two victims were treated and released.
TPD’s Violent Crimes Unit reviewed physical and digital evidence and conducted numerous interviews. Investigators determined multiple groups had gathered at the parking garage for an unsanctioned pop-up party when gunfire erupted on several floors.
Evidence indicates Yates-Lyons had just arrived when the shooting began and was struck by gunfire while trying to leave the area. Police said Ellis, believing the vehicle was occupied by the person he was targeting, fired at it.
“Cases like this require patience, persistence and attention to detail,” Chief Lawrence Revell said. “This arrest is the result of months of diligent investigative work and our detectives’ commitment to finding answers for the victims and their families. While an arrest cannot undo the loss experienced by a family, we hope it represents an important step toward justice and accountability.”
Ellis was arrested on charges of first-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder.
Police said the investigation remains active. Anyone with information is asked to contact TPD at 850-891-4200 or remain anonymous by calling Crime Solvers at 850-574-TIPS.