Police: Tropicana Bradenton employee shot by a coworker; suspect sought

Jesse Mendoza, Sarasota Herald-Tribune
Updated ·1 min read
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Law enforcement is searching for a Tropicana Bradenton employee accused of shooting a co-worker Monday night while on the job.

The Bradenton Police Department says it is searching for the suspect, identified as Demetrius Tyrone Bell, 50, who fled the scene in a black Camaro with license plate QUQF97 after the altercation. The victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment and is in stable condition.

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Authorities believe the two men were involved in a dispute, and Bell, who works a different shift, walked into the Tropicana Bradenton plant Monday night while the victim was working and shot him.

Warrants have been issued for Bell, who faces charges of aggravated battery with a firearm as well as possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Anyone with information about Bell's wherabouts can contact Detective Jeff Beckley at 915-932-9356 or by emailing jeff.beckley@bradentonpd.com.

Authorities are offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for any tips that could lead to an arrest. Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-8477 or visit manateecrimestoppers.com to send an E-Tip.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Police: Tropicana Bradenton employee shot by coworker; suspect sought