FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director
Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]
TAMPA, FL (April 12, 2024) — Cody Shimooka, 15, will be charged as an adult in the shooting death of a 14-year-old boy on Easter weekend. The defendant will be charged with manslaughter with a weapon, tampering with physical evidence, and minor in possession of a firearm.
On March 30, Shimooka called 911 to report that he accidentally shot his friend while helping a neighbor pack to move. Shimooka originally told officers he located a firearm in the nightstand and picked it up before stubbing his toe, causing the gun to fire. After a thorough investigation, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office uncovered additional evidence that suggests Shimooka was not truthful in his statements to detectives.
“This tragedy claimed the life of a 14-year-old with a full life ahead of him. The defendant has pending cases involving other violent incidents in juvenile court already. He made an adult decision and will be facing charges in adult court as a result. My heart is with the family and friends of the victim whose life was cut short due to the defendant’s reckless actions,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.