Dispute Over Jet-Skis Ends With 7-Year-Old Shot And Killed On 4th Of July

TAMPA, FLORIDA — On July 4th, a dispute over jet-ski proximity to the shore tragically ended in a shooting, resulting in the death of a 7-year-old boy, Yitzian Torres Garcia, near the Courtney Campbell Causeway, Tampa. The argument occurred between two groups around 8:30 p.m., with one upset about the other riding jet skis too close to where children were playing.

Amid the gunfire, Yitzian’s grandfather attempted to protect him by pulling him into a nearby truck. A bullet hit the truck, injuring the grandfather’s finger and fatally striking Yitzian in the head. Both were taken to the hospital, where Yitzian was pronounced dead, while the grandfather’s injuries were not life-threatening.

In the wake of this incident, Deputy Chief Calvin Johnson appealed to the public for any information. He emphasized the unnecessary escalation from an argument to lethal gun violence, highlighting the tragedy’s lasting impact on the affected families and broader community. Stressing the urgent need to address gun violence, Johnson asserted that the issue affects generations and expressed his hope for improved handling of firearms by the society at large.

If you have information that may lead to justice, contact 813-231-6130, or anonymously reach out to Crimestoppers at 800-873-TIPS (8477).