Tampa Republic

Tampa Police have arrested 16-year-old Andre Zakanya James in connection with a shooting that occurred on November 26, 2024. The incident took place around 1:00 p.m. on the 2100 block of W Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.

Upon arrival, officers found a teenage male with a gunshot wound to his upper body. The victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment and remains hospitalized.

Surveillance footage showed James waiting in an alley near a business before approaching the victim on N Albany Ave. He pointed a firearm at the victim and fired one round. As he attempted to fire again, the gun jammed, and James fled the scene on foot.

James was identified by an officer who regularly conducts curfew checks and was arrested at his home. He faces charges including One Felony Count of Attempted Murder in the First Degree Premeditated Firearm and One Felony Count of Aggravated Battery Greater Bodily Harm or Deadly Weapon Firearm.

The investigation continues as detectives work to understand what led to the incident and any connections between the individuals involved.

“There’s nothing more alarming than a blatant disregard for another person’s life,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Violence in our community and amongst juveniles will not be tolerated. I’m appreciative of all the hard work our detectives and officers did in less than 24 hours that led to this quick arrest. It is also due in part to the everyday efforts of officers assigned to juvenile checks that work to keep those with extensive criminal histories accountable.”

The Tampa Police Department reminds residents about their Project Locked and Unlocked program, which offers free gunlocks at all Tampa Police locations and select Hillsborough County Public Library locations.

The investigation is ongoing, with additional information expected as it becomes available.