Teenager Charged After Fatal Shooting of Lyft Driver in Florida
A 17-year-old from Florida has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a rideshare driver. The incident occurred early on Saturday morning, May 24, around 2:24 a.m. local time, in Panama City Beach.
The Bay County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) responded quickly to a report of gunfire on Wildwood Road. Upon arrival, they discovered a victim with gunshot wounds near their vehicle, which was found about 100 yards away. Despite being rushed to a local hospital, the driver, who worked for Lyft, later died from their injuries. The victim’s identity has not yet been disclosed.
Authorities identified Brayden Raul Gomez as the suspect. They believe he was a passenger in the Lyft vehicle before the shooting took place. Gomez was found later on Dorothy Avenue.
In a statement, Lyft expressed their condolences to the victim’s family and offered support during this difficult time. They also confirmed that Gomez has been permanently banned from the platform and that they are assisting law enforcement with the investigation.
After the shooting, BCSO’s Criminal Investigations and Crime Scene unit examined the area, where they found evidence of blood and bullet holes in the car. Witnesses reported seeing the suspect fleeing the scene and climbing a fence into a nearby neighborhood.
Gomez is currently facing an open count of murder and is being held at the Bay County Jail. Community members have expressed their shock and sadness on social media, with one user indicating they knew the victim, describing them as a good person loved by family and friends.
Authorities did not provide additional updates on the case over the weekend. As investigations continue, the local community remains affected by this tragic event.
