The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has a man in custody following a shooting stemming from a dispute involving children.
On March 23, 2026, HCSO’s 911 Center received a call regarding a confrontation at an apartment complex where a firearm had been discharged. Deputies arrived and made contact with multiple witnesses.
Through the investigation, detectives determined the incident began when a group of children were playing outside. Another child, who was not included in the group, returned home and told a family member she was being bullied.
Adults then gathered outside the apartment complex to address the issue, which led to a verbal altercation involving multiple individuals.
During the confrontation, the suspect, Khiry Cole, 35, approached the victim and initiated a physical dispute. Cole then produced a firearm and chased the victim, firing two rounds as the victim fled. No one was injured.
Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Cole. He is now facing the following charges:
- Attempted Murder in the Second Degree Firearm - Discharge
- Aggravated Battery Great Bodily Harm or Deadly Weapon Firearm - Discharge
- Discharge Firearm in Public or on Residential Property
On April 5, 2026, Cole turned himself in at Orient Road Jail, where he was taken into custody.
“This situation escalated quickly and recklessly, putting lives at risk, including children,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Pulling a gun and firing at someone over a dispute is unacceptable. We will continue to hold those who resort to violence fully accountable.”
This is an active investigation. Any updates will be provided by the Public Affairs Office.