ST. PETERSBURG, FL — An 18-year-old man was fatally shot Wednesday afternoon during an attempted gun purchase at the Childs Park YMCA, according to the St. Petersburg Police Department.
Officers responded at approximately 2:09 p.m. on July 22 to the YMCA at 691 43rd St. S. for reports of a shooting. The 18-year-old victim was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. His identity has not yet been released.
Investigators said the victim and another 18-year-old man traveled from Clearwater to St. Petersburg to purchase a firearm. They met My’ Kiese Johnson, 18, of St. Petersburg, and another man at the YMCA. Police said the group entered a bathroom to complete the transaction, where gunfire was exchanged.
Johnson suffered a minor gunshot wound to the face and later went to a hospital for treatment on his own. He was arrested and charged with attempted felony murder. Police said Johnson’s companion fled the scene and remains at large. The investigation is ongoing.
Update: My’Kiese Johnson’s charges have been upgraded to Murder while Engaged in a Robbery.
SOURCE: St. Petersburg Police Department
