WINTER HAVEN, FLORIDA — A man in Winter Haven is now in custody following an incident where he allegedly shot another individual who had approached his residence. The incident occurred at the assailant’s apartment on 19th Street SE, where 26-year-old Ki’Jana Devane Thomas resides. Thomas contacted 911 himself, claiming he had shot someone outside his apartment. Police discovered the victim near a local Dollar General.
Thomas, recounting the incident, mentioned the victim had knocked, asking to “drink and chill”. Due to past unfavorable interactions, Thomas refused his offer. Following this, Thomas approached the victim and shot him six times while the victim was retreating. Thomas claimed he acted out of fear for his life.
However, Chief David Brannan argued that Thomas could have opted for non-violent alternatives like closing the door or calling the police for intervention, instead of risking the safety of surrounding civilians by using a firearm.
The victim is critically injured and is currently at Lakeland Regional Health, while Thomas faces charges for aggravated battery with a weapon.
