Fort Pierce boy dies after being shot while riding bike, police release his name

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — A 16-year-old boy, who was shot while riding his bike in Fort Pierce Thursday night, has died from his injuries.

Police say Kevin Searles was riding his bike along Avenue N near North 23rd Street on June 11 when three teens were seen running in different directions after several shots were fired on June 11.

St. Lucie County Sheriff’s deputies found Searles on the sidewalk bleeding from gunshot wounds. Detectives says he was also armed.

He was rushed to the to the hospital and underwent surgery, but later died on Monday, June 15.

Investigators say all three suspects were found within a short time. One was tracked down by a K-9, and another was found hiding inside a recycling bin. Officers also recovered a gun they believe is connected to the case.

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A 16-year-old boy was arrested and charged with attempted homicide, tampering with evidence, and unlawful carrying of a firearm by a person under 18.

Fort Pierce Police say they are now working to upgrade the charge to homicide. The state will decide if he will be charged as an adult.

Detectives are encouraging any member of the public with information regarding this incident to contact the Fort Pierce Police Department at 772-462-6800 or Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at www.tcwatch.org.