Fatal shooting in Lake Wales under investigation by Polk County Sheriff's Office

LAKE WALES, Florida – A fatal shooting occurred in Lake Wales on the evening of June 18, 2024 and is currently under investigation by the Polk County Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit.

Preliminary results suggest that Vincent Thomas Jr., 19, along with at least three other people, drove to a residence on Northside Drive around 7 p.m.

Thomas, armed with a handgun, confronted a 20-year-old man living outside, threatening him with his weapon.

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The two men, former acquaintances from Lake Wales High School, had previously had a disagreement. During the altercation, the resident retrieved a rifle and fired several shots at Thomas, hitting him at least twice. The shooter remained at the scene and is cooperating with detectives.

Thomas was transported to Advent Health Lake Wales Hospital by his friends, where he died from his injuries. Two of his friends were arrested for tampering with evidence and providing false information to law enforcement during a criminal investigation.

Thomas had a criminal history including battery on law enforcement, threatening law enforcement, failure to appear, resisting arrest, and driving with a suspended license. He was also on felony probation at the time of the incident.

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