Two Dead, Six Injured in Downtown Orlando Shooting; 17-Year-Old Suspect in Custody

Orlando, FL — A violent incident in downtown Orlando early Tuesday morning led to the tragic deaths of two people and injuries to six others. According to the Orlando Police Department, the shooting took place at two separate locations, with the first burst of gunfire near the intersection of Central Boulevard and Orange Avenue and a second incident further south along Orange Avenue, near Washington Street.

Authorities quickly responded to the scene and managed to apprehend a suspect identified as 17-year-old Jaylen Dwayne Edgar. Police stated that Edgar, who had previously been arrested in 2023 on charges of grand theft, was detained in connection with both shootings. While Edgar is in custody, the Orlando Police Department has yet to determine his motives and is investigating whether the victims were targeted or if the attacks were random.

The victims, whose ages range from 18 to 39, were transported to area hospitals. Tragically, two of the victims succumbed to their injuries, although authorities have not yet released their identities, pending notifications to the families. The other six victims are receiving medical care, but their conditions remain undisclosed.

Orlando’s downtown district was left rattled by the incident, with many locals expressing fear and frustration about recent violence. The city’s Mayor released a statement expressing condolences to the victims’ families and affirming that law enforcement efforts would be strengthened. He noted that the Orlando Police Department is committed to increasing patrols in the downtown area to ensure public safety.

Police have urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward, as detectives work to understand the sequence of events and reasons behind the attacks. Surveillance footage from nearby establishments is under review, and additional officers have been stationed in the vicinity as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are also examining Edgar’s prior arrest to see if there could be any connection to the motive behind the shootings.

As the investigation continues, Orlando’s officials are looking to reassure residents and business owners. They emphasized that they are taking significant steps to ensure such violent incidents do not repeat in the downtown area, pledging increased security measures and support for the community during this challenging time.