FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director
Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]
TAMPA, FL (December 12, 2023) — A judge ruled the 14-year-old charged with killing a 20-year-old man during the October mass shooting in Ybor City will remain behind bars as he awaits trial. The State Attorney’s Office argued that Kadyn Abney, 14, remains a danger to the community and the judge agreed he should not be released from jail before facing a jury.
Abney opened fire on historic 7th Avenue in Ybor City while hundreds of people gathered in the streets during Halloween festivities. The defendant fled to West Palm Beach following the shooting where he was arrested weeks later.
The lead detective in the case testified that Abney can be seen on surveillance video firing a gun in Ybor City toward crowds of people. The judge also watched video of Abney during police questioning as he apologized for firing the gun that killed the 20-year-old victim.
“A 14-year-old should be focusing on his schoolwork, not committing acts of violence, and endangering innocent people with gunfire. A person who would open fire on a crowded street like this 14-year-old presents an ongoing threat to our community. The only way to keep everyone safe is to ensure he remains behind bars prior to trial,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.
Our partners at the Tampa Police Department continue the investigation into the crime and separate shootings that occurred at the same location. Tampa Police, in collaboration with the FBI, have created a web-based portal for members of the public to submit anonymous tips, videos, or photo evidence. Members of the public are encouraged to visit FBI.gov/TampaShooting to provide any information to police that may aid the investigation. You can also call the Tampa Police Department’s non-emergency line at (813)-231-6130 or Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 800-873-8477.
State Attorney Lopez leads a team of talented prosecutors and professional staff who are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:
· Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
· Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
· Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO
About the State Attorney’s Office
The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.