UPDATE: A Florida judge has denied bond for Kevin Arriola, the man accused of opening fire after a crash in downtown Tampa. The decision was made during a court hearing held on October 5, 2023, following a chaotic incident that could have led to severe injury or worse.
According to the Tampa Police Department, Arriola, 29, crashed his Mazda 3 into multiple vehicles on the Selmon Expressway exit ramp to East Kennedy Boulevard before firing shots at a red Chrysler 300. Witnesses reported his erratic driving prior to the crash, raising alarms about his behavior.
“This was an extremely dangerous and senseless situation that could have easily resulted in tragedy,” stated Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, but the potential for disaster was evident.
Details from the police report reveal a disturbing scene. When deputies arrived, Arriola was found flailing his arms and shouting statements like, “I killed her” and “I’m god.” He allegedly admitted to firing his gun at the Chrysler, claiming he aimed to kill the driver, whom he did not know. The driver, a nurse en route to assist others, was caught in the crossfire but was unharmed.
The investigation uncovered evidence of nine bullet holes in the Chrysler, including damage to the windshield and hood. Surveillance footage from both a tow truck and the nearby Hillsborough County Public Schools building captured the shocking events as they unfolded.
Arriola faces multiple charges, including first-degree attempted murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and possession of a firearm during a felony. During the court proceedings, prosecutors sought to keep him in custody until trial, a motion the defense did not contest. Judge J. Logan Murphy ruled that Arriola will remain without bond until a future hearing.
As of now, Arriola is receiving medical care in a hospital. The community is left shaken, grappling with the implications of such reckless violence.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this alarming incident, underscoring the urgent need for public safety measures. Keep an eye on this developing story as more details emerge.
