The 17- and 18-year-old boys are each facing an attempted murder charge.

TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa police have arrested two teenagers in connection with a shooting that left two other teens injured Thursday afternoon.

Officers were called around 1:40 p.m. to the area of Machado Street and Cassell Street following reports of gunfire. 

When they arrived, police found two males, ages 18 and 15, suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers rendered first aid until Tampa Fire Rescue transported both victims to a nearby hospital. Their injuries were serious but not life-threatening.



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Detectives initially believed as many as three suspects may have been involved, but worked overnight interviewing witnesses, reviewing evidence and tracking leads. Investigators said they ultimately identified the shooters as 18-year-old Jaquez Lawson and a 17-year-old boy. Police said the shooting stemmed from a targeted confrontation.

The suspects’ vehicle, a silver 2015 Hyundai with visible damage, was tracked to Parrish. With assistance from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, both suspects were taken into custody as they were leaving a home under construction. Police said two firearms were recovered.

The 17-year-old is charged with attempted murder and possession of a firearm by a minor. Lawson faces an attempted murder charge. Both were booked into the Manatee County Jail and will be transferred to Hillsborough County.

“This is a stark reminder of the tragedies that occur when teenagers have easy access to firearms and choose violence to settle disputes,” Chief Lee Bercaw said. “Our detectives worked relentlessly through the night to identify and track these suspects, and I want to extend my sincere thanks to members of the community who provided helpful information to investigators, and a special thanks to Sheriff Rick Wells and the men and women of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office whose partnership helped us ensure these two will face swift justice.”