RIVERVIEW, Fla. — A teenager was charged with attempted murder after allegedly shooting a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agent in Riverview on Friday.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested and charged Christopher Smith, 18, with first-degree attempted murder with firearm with discharge with great bodily harm and aggravated battery great bodily harm deadly weapon.
The victim was an ATF agent who was off duty at the time of the shooting, Sheriff’s Office officials said.
At about 11:07 p.m., HCSO received the shooting call at The Alley at Southshore, 10221 Big Bend Road in Riverview.
When deputies arrived, they discovered the agent with upper-body trauma. He was taken to a hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.
Detectives determined that the shooting occurred after the agent tried to break up a fight.
Smith was additionally charged with tampering with physical evidence and carrying a concealed firearm.
“This suspect’s reckless actions have left the victim seriously injured, and he will now be held accountable for endangering the safety of others. I commend the determination of our detectives, as well as ATF agents, in locating the suspect,” said Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The victim, a brave individual, was trying to disperse a fight because his sense of duty extends beyond work. Our thoughts remain with him as he recovers from his injuries.”
Florida unlicensed contractor faces a bond normally reserved for murderers and violent criminals.
