TAMPA, FL – A man in Florida has been charged with several felonies in connection with a road rage incident that resulted in a 4-year-old girl being shot. The Tampa Police Department confirmed they arrested James Jackson, 34, for his role in the shooting, which took place earlier Tuesday in the eastern part of Tampa.
According to investigators, Jackson became enraged with the driver of a Chevrolet sedan while driving his own Kia Optima. The Kia reportedly pulled up alongside the Chevy when it stopped at a red light, and Jackson fired multiple shots through the open passenger window at the other vehicle.
One bullet struck a 4-year-old girl who was in the backseat of the Chevy. She was immediately transferred to a local hospital to receive treatment. Fortunately, she is now in stable condition. Others in the car, including an 8-year-old girl, the children’s mother, and a male passenger, were not hurt, as per the Tampa Police Department.
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw sent thoughts to the girl injured in the “senseless act,” and assured that a Victim’s Advocate would work closely with the family to provide necessary resources.
Jackson faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery, discharging a firearm from a vehicle, tampering with evidence, fleeing to elude, resisting an officer without violence, possession of a firearm during a felony, and drug possession.
Jackson was booked at Hillsborough County Jail early Wednesday morning and is being held without bond. There’s presently no information about Jackson’s attorney.