City Of Tampa | City Of Tampa website
City Of Tampa | City Of Tampa website
An 18-year-old male was arrested after Tampa Police Officers discovered two loaded guns, one of which had been reported stolen, during a proactive patrol. The incident occurred on May 18, 2024, around 10:30 pm in the South Howard area.
The officers were conducting their patrol when they noticed two males, including the defendant identified as Bryce Rivers (born January 28, 2006), loitering near a blue BMW before walking away. Upon approaching the car and spotting a black and tan handgun in plain sight, the officers initiated surveillance.
When the subjects returned to the vehicle, officers conducted a field interview and subsequently searched the car. They recovered the previously observed firearm - a loaded Taurus G2C 9mm. During further investigation, they also found a second firearm - a loaded purple Taurus G2C 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen in 2021.
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw commended his team's efforts stating, "The keen observation skills displayed by our officers resulted in the recovery of two guns.” He added that these dedicated efforts underline their commitment to public safety and their mission to keep Tampa safe for residents and visitors alike.
Rivers was charged with Carrying a Concealed Firearm and transported to Orient Road Jail.
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