Tampa Police Department detectives continue their investigation into the January 22, 2026, shooting death of 16-year-old Miracle Cromwell and are seeking the public’s assistance in apprehending 17-year-old Brandon Earle Brown, Jr.
According to a Tampa Police press release issued February 19, 2026, officers responded at approximately 2:07 a.m. to a residence in the 8200 block of N. 12th Street. Upon arrival within two minutes, they located Cromwell in a bedroom suffering from a fatal gunshot wound to her upper body.
The investigation determined that Brown and several acquaintances, including Cromwell, were participating in a FaceTime call with another individual. During the call, Brown was allegedly waving a tan-colored handgun. Following a brief verbal exchange, a single shot was fired, resulting in Cromwell’s death. Brown fled the scene as officers arrived. Investigators subsequently recovered the firearm, magazine, and live ammunition along his flight path.
Brown, described as a Black male born April 18, 2008, stands 5’7″ tall, weighs approximately 130 pounds, has black hair and brown eyes. He is known to frequent the Sulphur Springs area and is believed to be actively evading arrest. An active warrant has been issued for charges including manslaughter.
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw stated: “Miracle was a young woman with her entire life ahead of her and her family deserves more than just answers, they deserve the closure that comes with justice. Our detectives have not stopped since the moment they arrived on scene, and we will not rest until the individual responsible is held accountable.”
The Tampa Police Victims Advocate has been providing ongoing support and assistance to Cromwell’s family.
Anyone with information on Brown’s location is urged to contact Tampa Police at 813.231.6130, referencing report #26-41792.
Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Brown’s arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 800.873.TIPS, dialing **TIPS from a cellphone, or using the Florida Crime Stoppers mobile app and selecting “Tampa.”
SOURCE: TAMPA POLICE DEPARTMENT
