Two unidentified shooters engaged in a crossfire, trapping two sisters in a dangerous situation. Maryam Castro, one of the sisters, recalled how she urged her sibling to take cover during the intense gunfire. She prioritized her sister’s safety above all else, even risking her own life to ensure her well-being.
According to a police report from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred two weeks ago. The report mentioned that an officer responded to the scene after hearing a barrage of 12 to 18 gunshots originating from Soutel Drive.
The officer intercepted a gray Nissan, which was speeding away from the area, and the driver informed him about the black Charger responsible for shooting at people in a parking lot. The officer then received confirmation of gunfire near the intersection of Soutel Drive and New Kings Road.
While on his way there, the officer spotted a black Dodge Charger racing down Moncrief Road. The subsequent actions taken by the officer are redacted, leaving their response unclear.
Sadly, this is not an isolated incident, as there have been several drive-by shootings in the past two months. Two weeks prior to this incident, a man was killed in a possible drive-by on Golfair Boulevard.
Additionally, two months earlier, over 50 bullets struck a JTA bus, injuring one man. Moreover, a week before that, a woman was shot while driving on the Westside, and the suspect in that case was apprehended.
Thankfully, Castro and her sister were not seriously injured, but they are seeking justice and accountability for the incident.
The authorities are urging anyone with information about this shooting or other drive-by shootings to come forward and contact the Sheriff’s office at 904-630-0500 or share information online at [email protected].
Alternatively, tips can be provided anonymously through the Crime Stoppers hotline at 866-845-TIPS.
