CHARLOTTE COUNTY, FL – A Facebook Marketplace transaction went awry, leading to an ambush and subsequent arrests in the Deep Creek neighborhood. Authorities spent 24 hours searching for six individuals involved in the incident, which left one person injured last Wednesday.
Residents were taken aback by the events, as the neighborhood is typically quiet. Benedetto DiPiazza, who owns a barbershop just minutes from the scene on Nomad Road and Melville Road, expressed disbelief, noting that such incidents are more commonly associated with larger cities.
Witnesses described the chaos that ensued, with people quickly locking their doors. Tonya Garcia, a local business owner, recounted her initial disbelief and subsequent precautionary measures. “When my husband told me about the active shooter, I immediately locked up the shop,” she said.
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office reported that four suspects were apprehended on Friday, with two others surrendering later that evening. The suspects, aged 16 to 21, have raised concerns about youth involvement in crime.
Garcia, who is also involved in mental health counseling, emphasized the need for community support and parental involvement. “This could happen anywhere,” she remarked, urging parents to be vigilant and supportive.
The victim of the shooting is expected to recover fully, according to officials. However, the incident has left a lingering question in the minds of many: where were the parents?
DiPiazza echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues at their roots. “It all starts at home,” he said, urging the community to reflect on the underlying causes.
As the investigation continues, the State Fire Marshal is also involved, examining the circumstances surrounding the ambush. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of seemingly routine transactions.