TAMPA, Fla. – Deputies have arrested a man who allegedly shot two of his children as they went to sleep in their bunk beds, killing one. Officials say the gunfire started just after the mother tucked to kids into bed.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office: Jermaine Bass, 30, is charged with Murder in the First Degree Premeditated Firearm Discharge Multiple Wounds Causing Death, Attempted Murder in the First Degree Premeditated Firearm Discharge, and Aggravated Child Abuse Firearm Causing Critical Injuries.
On August 29, 2022, just after 10:30 p.m., a shooting occurred at a residence located at the 13,000 block of Heritage Club Drive. Once on scene, deputies located two young children with injuries. Both children were rushed to Tampa General Hospital. The 5-year-old victim was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The 8-year-old victim is currently in critical condition.
The children reportedly suffered gunshot wounds to the head.
“This is a horrific experience no parent should have to go through,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This is an experience no law enforcement or first responder should ever have to witness. We as a sheriff’s office are struggling today. I hope that this individual feels the full weight of the criminal justice system and never sees the light of day where he can ever be in a position to harm another human being.”
Chronister said Bass told responding officers the shooting was an accident.
“I don’t know why he did this, I don’t know if we’ll ever know,” Chronister added. Watch the press conference below.
HCSO
