Photos for Headline Surfer / TOP: The first pic shows dirt flying from gunfire and a person ducking, and the next pic shows a gunman firing multiple rounds in the direction of the person in the April 29, 2024, shooting incident that resulted in Layla Bennett being shot in the head in the 100 block of Scott Drive, Sanford, Florida. She remains hospitalized in critical condition.
By HENRY FREDERICK / Headline Surfer
SANFORD, Fla. -- Sanford cops are asking for the community’s help in identifying the suspects in a newly released video, which shows the April 2024 shooting of Layla Bennett.
Hours after the shooting, on the evening of April 29, 2024, Sanford Police investigators identified and located the vehicle used in the shooting that resulted in
This investigation has remained active since it was opened. During that time, Investigators identified persons of interest and leads, which they continue to pursue. Investigators are releasing this surveillance footage and asking community members to provide information that may help remove these violent criminals from our community.
The surveillance footage released shows the following scenes:
The first is from Scott Drive, where the shooting occurred. The suspects can be seen in a sport utility vehicle, which is traveling as the suspects are shooting. The vehicle appears to be occupied by four individuals. TT
The second is from an apartment complex in Sanford, where three suspects exit and leave the vehicle.
Multimedia video
Headline Surfer video / Sanford cops release raw footage of the shooting of April 29, 2024, in the 100 block of Scott Drive that resulted in injuries to multiple victims - one still in critical condition to this day with a gunshot wound to the head.
Here are specific details on the shooting incidents that occurred on April 29, 2024, related to the police video of gunfire:
• Shortly after 3 pm, Tyshawn Ellison (DOB 7/20/07) arrived at a local area hospital suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to his leg. It was determined that Ellison was walking in the area of 9th Street and Holly Avenue when occupants of a dark in color sedan began shooting at him. Ellison ran to a nearby family member’s home, where they then took him to the hospital.
Shortly before 7:00 pm, Sanford Police responded to a shooting with injuries on the 100 block of Scott Drive. Responding officers located Layla Bennett (DOB 5/2/2006) suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the head. Bennett was transported to the hospital. She remains in critical condition. Officers also located Jalaysia Hunter (DOB 8/31/2006) suffering from a minor injury.
Based on the investigation, Bennett and Hunter were standing in front of the residence located at 115 Scott Drive when a red SUV drove past and the occupants of the vehicle opened fire.
In response to the recent shootings, Sanford Police have increased all patrol staffing levels and are conducting enforcement targeting areas associated with the investigations.
Regarding the shootings, Deputy Chief Trekelle Perkins stated: “We are exhausting all efforts in investigating these shootings and preventing any additional shootings. I can’t emphasize enough that stopping this violence cannot be done by law enforcement alone. We need full cooperation from the victims and witnesses. That means talking with investigators, providing them the evidence they ask for, such as cellphones, and providing statements. Working together is how ‘WE’ create a safe community.”
Regarding the shootings, Deputy Chief Trekelle Perkins stated: “We are exhausting all efforts in investigating these shootings and preventing any additional shootings. I can’t emphasize enough that stopping this violence cannot be done by law enforcement alone. We need full cooperation from the victims and witnesses. That means talking with investigators, providing them the evidence they ask for, such as cellphones, and providing statements. Working together is how ‘WE’ create a safe community.”
Investigators are asking anyone with information on these crimes or the identity of the individuals involved to contact the Sanford Police Department or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimeline.org.
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