3 Arrested In Tropical Smoothie Cafe Shooting In Lutz

LUTZ, FL — Three people have been arrested on charges of attempted homicide following a shooting at the Tropical Smoothie Cafe, 23673 State Road 54, Lutz, June 15.

Michael Lopergalo, 18, Ryan Cairel, 18, and Alejandro Solorzano, 16, were arrested on charges of two counts of attempted homicide each. Lopergalo and Cairel were arrested in Tampa.

Just before 8:45 p.m. June 15, two boys, ages 16 and 17, were attempting to sell marijuana in the parking lot of Tropical Smoothie Cafe when they were approached by two men wearing ski masks.

The teens began to drive away when as the men began shooting at the car. The 16-year-old was shot in the leg and suffered a minor injury.

The teens drove to the Crunch Fitness, 2126 Collier Parkway, Land O' Lakes, where they reported the shooting as the shooters got into an Infiniti sedan and followed them.

Crunch Fitness posted an item on its Facebook page to assure clients of their safety at the fitness center and dispel reports that there was any danger at Crunch Fitness:

"In light of recent events, Crunch Fitness would like to assure our members and guests that the safety and well-being of our employees and members are our first priority. As detailed in the statement from the Pasco Sheriff’s office, the Crunch Fitness Land O’ Lakes location served as a safe haven where an individual was seeking help. Anything outside of this statement has been deemed as false and misinformation online should be disregarded."

See related story: Update: 16-Year-Old Shot By 2 Men Wearing Ski Masks In Land O' Lakes