A 15-year-old suspect has been arrested in connection with a mass shooting that injured 11 people in Tallahassee, Florida, during homecoming weekend. Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell announced the arrest on Monday, October 26, stating that the minor faces multiple serious charges following the weekend violence.
The suspect, identified as Anthony Rivers III, has been charged with 11 counts of attempted second-degree murder and one count of possession of a firearm by a delinquent. The shooting erupted on Saturday night along Perry Street, located directly behind Bragg Memorial Stadium. The incident unfolded as crowds of people were leaving local homecoming celebrations.
Details of the Tallahassee Homecoming Shooting
According to the Tallahassee Police Department, 11 individuals suffered gunshot wounds during the incident. An additional person sustained injuries while fleeing the scene. Authorities confirmed that no deaths have been reported.
Investigators revealed that six of the victims are minors, including an 11-year-old child. At least three victims suffered serious injuries. By Sunday morning, five of the injured individuals had been discharged from area hospitals, while six victims remained hospitalized with at least one person in critical condition.
Chief Revell noted during a press briefing that preliminary findings suggest a physical altercation occurred between individuals who were already known to one another before any shots were fired. Authorities stated that none of the victims appear to have been the intended targets.
Community Impact and University Response
The off-campus shooting took place hours after a highly attended homecoming football game at Bragg Memorial Stadium, where the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions defeated the Florida A&M University Rattlers 31-28. Local law enforcement officials have emphasized that it remains unclear whether the shooting was directly connected to the athletic event or related activities.
Florida A&M University President Marva Johnson issued a strong statement expressing deep concern and outrage over the violence near the campus.
To our Rattler family and our surrounding Tallahassee community, I share your outrage and profound sadness at the senseless and des**cable shooting that took place near our FAMU campus last night. To all the victims, please know that we are with you and we are praying for your recovery in body, mind and spirit.
Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey also addressed the tragedy, emphasizing that local leaders and residents stand firmly alongside the university community during the recovery process.
Ongoing Police Investigation
The Tallahassee Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit is leading the active investigation. Detectives have reviewed digital evidence, canvassed the neighborhood, and collected physical clues from the scene around Perry Street and Manatee Street.
Because the investigation remains fluid, police officials stated that additional arrests could still be made. Authorities have urged anyone with photos, videos, or other relevant information to come forward.
- Dedicated TPD Tip Hotline: 850-891-4610
- Crime Solvers Anonymous Line: 850-574-TIPS
- Online evidence submission portals are active through local law enforcement websites.
Law enforcement agencies continue to stress that community cooperation is vital as detectives work to secure full accountability and answers for the victims and their families.
