FORT MYERS, Fla. – Authorities in Lee County, Florida, are investigating a shooting that occurred Monday evening at HeadPinz, a popular entertainment venue on Global Parkway. While no injuries were reported, the incident has prompted an increased law enforcement presence in the area and a search for multiple suspects.
Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno confirmed the investigation in a Facebook post, stating that deputies were dispatched to HeadPinz following reports of gunfire. Sheriff Marceno added that patrols would be increased and additional resources deployed to the vicinity. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Violent Crimes unit is currently interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence.
According to Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers, authorities are seeking four individuals in connection with the shooting. The suspects are described as three Hispanic men who fled the scene in a white Toyota Corolla, and one Black man who left in a blue Kia K4. Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the LCSO at 239-477-1000 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
The shooting occurred at a venue frequently visited by families, raising concerns among local residents. Sandy Auckerman, a resident of Naples, expressed her shock and worry, stating, “It’s scary. I’m really upset about it because… My grandkids go there. My kids used to go there and I used to feel safe about dropping them off, so I’m really sad about it.” Auckerman recounted fond memories of HeadPinz as a safe and enjoyable space for children, highlighting activities like bowling and playing in the arcade.
Keith Auckerman, also from Naples, emphasized the importance of safe recreational spaces for young people in the area. “A place where the kids go every weekend and enjoy themselves. That’s a safe place for them. It’s something they’re not… There’s not a lot for them to choose from. This area is designed for the older people mostly, and the young kids need a safe place to go, and that’s always been one, you know?” he said.
HeadPinz Fort Myers released a statement on its Facebook page acknowledging the incident and reassuring the community. The statement confirmed that both HeadPinz and its adjacent FastTrax location were immediately placed on lockdown upon receiving reports of the shooting. The venue’s staff were praised for their swift action in maintaining a calm and secure environment, and the prompt response of the Florida Highway Patrol and the LCSO was acknowledged.
“Throughout the incident, our focus remained on communication and guest safety,” the statement read. “We are proud of how our staff handled the moment and grateful for the swift support from law enforcement. The safety and well-being of our guests, employees, and community will always remain our highest priority.” HeadPinz indicated that It’s cooperating fully with law enforcement and will provide further updates as they become available, including addressing accommodations and refunds for impacted visitors.
The incident at HeadPinz underscores the ongoing challenges of ensuring public safety in community spaces. While details surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, the response from local authorities and the venue itself highlights a commitment to prioritizing the well-being of residents and visitors. The search for the suspects is ongoing, and the LCSO is urging anyone with information to come forward.
The timing of the incident, occurring on a Monday evening, suggests the venue may have been populated with families and individuals seeking early-week entertainment. The fact that no injuries were reported is a significant point of relief for the community, but the event serves as a stark reminder of the potential for violence even in seemingly safe environments.
The investigation is likely to focus on determining the motive behind the shooting and identifying the individuals involved. The use of multiple vehicles in the getaway suggests a degree of planning, and investigators will be examining surveillance footage and witness statements to piece together the events leading up to the incident. The involvement of Crime Stoppers indicates a desire to encourage anonymous tips from the public, which could prove crucial in identifying the suspects.
The response from HeadPinz, emphasizing its commitment to safety and cooperation with law enforcement, is a standard practice for businesses facing such incidents. The offer of refunds and accommodations to impacted visitors demonstrates a concern for customer satisfaction and a willingness to address the disruption caused by the shooting. The venue’s swift implementation of lockdown procedures likely prevented further escalation and ensured the safety of those inside.
This incident occurs within a broader context of increasing concerns about gun violence in the United States. While the specific circumstances of the shooting at HeadPinz are still under investigation, it adds to a growing number of incidents that have prompted calls for stricter gun control measures and increased investment in community safety programs. The focus on securing safe spaces for children, as highlighted by local residents, reflects a wider societal desire to protect vulnerable populations from violence.
