16-year-old : “Teen accused of fatal stabbing in Sumter County”

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. — A tragic incident unfolded in Sumter County, Florida, as a 16-year-old suspect was arrested for allegedly killing a teen and injuring an adult in a stabbing incident near Wildwood. The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident took place on Saturday evening at 6611 County Road 148.

Details of the Incident

According to deputies, they received a distress call regarding a stabbing around 10 p.m. Upon reaching the scene, they found two victims, one adult and one teen, with stab wounds. The violent episode occurred during a sleepover the teen victim was hosting at their residence.

The suspect, who was acquainted with the victim, unexpectedly showed up at the residence and forcefully entered the premises. The victim, in an attempt to unlock the door, was attacked by the suspect with a deadly weapon. A third individual present at the scene was also threatened by the assailant. The adult victim intervened and was also stabbed during the altercation.

Emergency medical services provided immediate assistance to the victims at the scene before airlifting them to local hospitals for further treatment. Tragically, the 14-year-old victim succumbed to their injuries at 1:19 a.m., while the adult victim continues to receive medical care.

Arrest and Charges

Following an intensive investigation, authorities identified a 16-year-old individual as the primary suspect, who had fled the scene on foot. The suspect was apprehended shortly after with the assistance of the sheriff’s office helicopter.

The 16-year-old suspect was taken into custody and charged with premeditated first-degree murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Both the suspect and the deceased victim had withdrawn from Sumter County Schools and were undergoing homeschooling.

Ongoing Investigation

The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office highlighted that the investigation is still active, with additional charges against the suspect under scrutiny. Anyone with pertinent information related to the case is urged to contact the sheriff’s office at 352-793-2621. For anonymous tips, individuals can reach out to Crimeline at 1-800-423-8477.

As the community grapples with this tragic incident, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office continues to seek justice and closure for the affected families.

©2024 Cox Media Group