Orlando Shooting Leaves Two Dead and Eight Injured, Police Chief Reports

Authorities in Orlando, Florida, have confirmed that eight victims were affected by a shooting incident early Friday morning, resulting in two fatalities. Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith provided an update during a press briefing.

Details of the Incident

At approximately 1:07 a.m., officers responded to reports of shots fired at the intersection of Central Boulevard and Orange Avenue. A second call regarding shots fired was received shortly thereafter, south of Washington Street on Orange Avenue. Chief Smith clarified that no police officers discharged their weapons during the incident.

Victims Identified

Among the eight victims, two have been confirmed deceased: a 25-year-old male and a 19-year-old male. The other six victims, who were transported for medical treatment, are reported to be in stable condition. Their injuries included:

• An 18-year-old male with a gunshot wound to his lower left leg
• A 39-year-old female shot in her left hand
• A 24-year-old female shot in her left leg
• A 20-year-old male grazed by a bullet in the head
• A 26-year-old male shot in his right foot
• A 19-year-old female shot in her upper back, with the bullet lodging in her cheek

Also read: Gold coin worth more than $18 million, collectors wish they have a specimen like this one

Additionally, a ninth victim, a 26-year-old female, was trampled in the chaos as people attempted to escape the scene.

Suspect in Custody

The suspect, identified as 17-year-old Jaylen Dwayne Edgar, has been taken into custody. Chief Smith noted that Edgar had a prior arrest in 2023 for grand theft. Following the shooting, video footage was shown during the press conference, depicting the panic as crowds fled and an officer tackling the suspect to the ground. Body cam footage of the arrest was also displayed.

Charges Filed

The Orlando Police Department announced that Edgar has been charged with two counts of First-Degree Murder with a Firearm and six counts of Attempted First-Degree Murder with a Firearm.

This tragic event has left the community reeling as investigations continue and authorities work to provide support to the victims and their families.

Source