Suspects Torch Their SUV After Shooting Bradenton Driver, Critically Injuring Him: Sheriff

BRADENTON, FL — A driver was critically injured after being shot at as he drove by a Bradenton convenience store on 57th Avenue West Tuesday afternoon, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

The victim was driving near Isaac’s Mini Mart at 1115 57th Ave. West around 3:50 p.m. when the suspects, in a white Mitsubishi SUV, began shooting at his vehicle, MCSO said.

The victim drove through Isaac’s parking lot, causing an accident with another vehicle there, before driving away. Deputies and EMS found him at Big City Tires at 5507 14th Street West.

He was brought to Blake Medical Center in critical condition with at least one gunshot wound, the sheriff’s office said.

The suspect’s SUV, which had been torched after the shooting, was found in the 1400 block of 20th Avenue East in Bradenton. They possibly drove off in a black Dodge Challenger, though detectives are unsure of the direction.

Detectives are following several leads as the investigation continues. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at 941-747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 866-634-TIPS (8477).