The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man for shooting at a driver who stopped to help him on the side of the road.
On September 29, 2026, just before 1:00 a.m., deputies responded to a report of a shooting in the area of Main Street and Grovewood Avenue.
The victim was driving eastbound on Main Street when a man walking along the roadway flagged him down by waving a flashlight. The victim stopped to help.
For unknown reasons, the man fired multiple rounds at the victim, striking the vehicle five times. The victim was able to drive to a nearby gas station, where he contacted HCSO.
Detectives searched the area and, through investigative means, identified the shooter as Franklin Windham, 32.
Detectives obtained a search warrant for Windham's residence. Inside, they located a firearm of the same caliber used in the shooting.
“This man saw someone he thought needed help and stepped in. His kindness was met with violence,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The suspect has been charged with attempted murder and will face the consequences for his actions.”
Windham was arrested and charged with the following:
- Attempted Murder in the Second Degree Firearm - Discharge
- Shooting at Within or Into a Vehicle
- Discharge Firearm in Public or on Residential Property
- Criminal Mischief $1,000 or More
- Possession of Firearm During Commission of Felony
- Aggravated Battery Deadly Weapon Firearm - Discharge
This is an active investigation. Any updates will come from the Public Affairs Office.
