Tampa police have released video footage showing the moments leading up to a shooting that killed two people and injured a third in SoHo over the weekend.

Officers responded to a parking lot in the 500 block of South Howard Avenue shortly before 3 a.m. on Sunday. According to Chief Lee Bercaw, a fight between two groups who knew each other escalated into gunfire.

The surveillance video, released by Tampa police, captures the moment shots were fired on Howard Avenue early Sunday. The footage shows police in the area moments before the gunshots, as officers were trying to manage crowds leaving nearby bars. The video then captures people running in panic after hearing the shots, which are audible in the recording.

Kenneth Washington, 28, and Kevon Christmas, 23, were transported to the hospital, where they succumbed to their injuries. A third victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, is expected to recover.

This incident follows recent violence in the area, prompting increased concerns among local businesses and residents about safety in SoHo. Tampa police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward as they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the altercation and subsequent gunfire.

In response to the tragic event, community leaders are organizing a town hall meeting to discuss safety measures and ways to enhance security in the SoHo district. They are calling for more police presence during peak hours, improved lighting in public areas, and the installation of additional surveillance cameras.

Local businesses are also stepping up to support the community by offering resources and assistance to those affected by the shooting. Several establishments have started fundraisers to help cover medical expenses for the injured victim and funeral costs for the families of the deceased.

The Tampa Police Department is committed to working with the community to ensure a safer environment. They have increased patrols in the SoHo area and are actively seeking witnesses to provide further information that could lead to arrests.

As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize the importance of community cooperation in ensuring public safety and bringing those responsible to justice. The community remains hopeful that through collaborative efforts, they can prevent such violence from occurring again and foster a safer, more secure environment for all.