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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Shooting Incident in Lakeland Leaves Two Dead
On a fateful evening in Lakeland, tragedy struck as a 3-year-old child and another individual lost their lives in a shooting incident. The heartbreaking event unfolded at 1850 Cambridge Cove Circle, where a senseless act of violence shattered the peace of the community.
Details of the Incident
According to reports from the Lakeland Police Department, the shooting took place at around 6:34 p.m. Four individuals were present at the scene, with a burgundy 2023 Toyota Rav4 serving as the backdrop to the harrowing events. Jaquez Norton, just 3 years old, tragically succumbed to his injuries, while Robert Einzig, aged 23, suffered non-life-threatening wounds and was rushed to Lakeland Regional Health for treatment. Yeimarie Baez, 21, and a 3-month-old infant were thankfully unharmed in the incident.
Sequence of Events
The sequence of events leading up to the shooting paints a picture of chaos and confusion. Baez, Einzig, and the children had arrived at Cambridge Cove in the Rav4 to visit a friend. As they were leaving the complex, a white Dodge Challenger blocked their path, setting the stage for a tragic confrontation. Kemarious Wilson, 22, emerged from the Challenger armed with a handgun, while another unidentified male brandished a rifle.
In a terrifying exchange of gunfire, Einzig fought back with his own weapons, while Baez fled the scene with the infant in tow. Wilson and his accomplice quickly retreated to the Challenger and made their escape, leaving a trail of devastation behind them.
Police Investigation
The aftermath of the shooting saw a flurry of police activity as detectives worked tirelessly to unravel the complexities of the case. The Challenger, the Rav4, and the vehicle used to transport Wilson to the hospital were all impounded for evidence processing. Multiple cell phones were seized, and various locations were scoured for surveillance footage in a bid to piece together the events that transpired that fateful evening.
Appeal for Information
Despite the progress made in the investigation, key questions remain unanswered. The driver of the Challenger remains at large, prompting authorities to appeal to the public for any information that could aid in their search. Detective Cory Lawson can be reached at cory.lawson@lakelandgov.net or 863-834-8975 for those willing to come forward with valuable information.
For those who wish to remain anonymous, Heartland Crime Stoppers offers a platform to share tips discreetly. By calling 1-888-400 TIPS (8477), dialling **TIPS from a cell phone, visiting the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com, or using the free “P3tips” app, individuals can contribute to the ongoing investigation while maintaining their anonymity.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this senseless tragedy, the need for justice and closure looms large. The memory of the innocent lives lost that day serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of coming together in times of adversity.
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