One Arrested, Two Suspects Sought in Fatal Shooting of St. Petersburg Teen

The St. Petersburg Police Department has confirmed the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old boy in the city, with one suspect arrested and two others still at large, according to verified reports from local law enforcement and news outlets. The incident occurred in the early hours of May 23, 2026, in the 4200 block of 15th Avenue South, where the victim, identified as Gaige Santos-Brown, was approached by three teenagers before the shooting took place.

Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and St. Petersburg Police Department statements indicate that a 16-year-old male has been taken into custody in connection with the shooting, while two other suspects—both minors—remain wanted. Authorities have not released further details about the victims’ identities or the circumstances surrounding the arrest, citing ongoing investigations. The case is being treated as a homicide, and law enforcement agencies are urging the public to come forward with any information that could assist in locating the remaining suspects.

This is the latest in a series of violent incidents involving minors in the region, raising concerns among community leaders and law enforcement about youth safety and the need for targeted interventions. The St. Petersburg Police Department has not provided additional context regarding the motive for the shooting or the relationship between the victim and the suspects, though local media reports suggest the encounter may have been unprovoked.

In response to the incident, community organizations and local officials have called for increased outreach programs aimed at at-risk youth, as well as stricter enforcement of existing laws related to juvenile violence. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office has reiterated its commitment to thorough investigations and swift justice in cases involving minors, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in resolving such matters.

For those seeking information or assistance, the St. Petersburg Police Department can be contacted through their non-emergency line at (727) 893-2200. The public is also encouraged to report any relevant information to local law enforcement or through anonymous tips via the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office website.