TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A 15-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with a shooting that injured 11 people near Florida A&M University’s Bragg Memorial Stadium following the school’s homecoming football game, according to the Tallahassee Police Department.
The shooting occurred shortly before 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, near Perry and Manatee streets, outside the stadium as crowds gathered and left homecoming festivities. Police announced the arrest Monday, Oct. 26, following an investigation that included tips from the public and digital evidence. ESPN
Authorities identified the suspect as Anthony Rivers III. He faces 11 counts of attempted second-degree murder and one count of possession of a firearm by a delinquent, according to police.
What Happened Near FAMU’s Bragg Memorial Stadium?
Investigators said preliminary findings indicate that a physical altercation between individuals who knew one another occurred before the gunfire erupted.
Police believe the people who were shot were not the intended targets. Authorities have not publicly established a motive, and the investigation remains active.
Eleven people suffered gunshot wounds, while another person was injured while fleeing the scene, bringing the total number of injured to 12. Six of the victims were minors, including an 11-year-old child.
At least three victims initially sustained serious injuries. In an update Sunday, police reported that five victims had been released from the hospital, while six remained hospitalized, including one in critical condition.
FAMU Homecoming Game Preceded Shooting
The shooting happened hours after Florida A&M hosted the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in its homecoming football game at Bragg Memorial Stadium.
Arkansas-Pine Bluff defeated the Rattlers 31-28.
Although the shooting occurred near the stadium during homecoming weekend, authorities have not established that the incident was directly connected to the football game or the university.
Florida A&M President Marva B. Johnson expressed sadness over the violence and said the university was providing care and support to members of the FAMU community who were injured.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Tallahassee police said the arrest followed an influx of information from community members, including tips and digital evidence.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and police have indicated that additional arrests are possible.
The incident has cast a shadow over a weekend intended to celebrate FAMU’s students, alumni and Rattler community.
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Tallahassee Police Department’s dedicated tip line at 850-891-4610.
This is a developing story. Updates will be added as authorities release additional information.
