The investigation into the triple shooting on Christmas night in Palatka has determined two of the young men killed in the crowd had guns recovered next to them at the scene, according to the Police Department.
Other evidence is being processed, and “the investigation has led investigators to believe additional suspects were involved in the shooting and played a significant role in the incident. Several individuals have been identified,” the department posted Wednesday on its Facebook.
Investigators think it may have started with a party that shut down in St. Johns County and moved to Putnam County, according to the Palatka Daily News. Police were then called about 9:30 p.m. to the gathering in a parking lot in the 100 block of North 19th Street. As officers were clearing the crowd, they heard several gunshots coming from the area of the newspaper building at 1825 St. Johns Ave. and found three victims outside, according to the Police Department.
Police said Tyree Gilyard, 23, of Crescent City died at the scene, and Dorrion Mckinnon, 17, of Palatka, died at the hospital. Dazial Dennis, 21, of Crescent City was being treated in critical condition but has since been released.
Wednesday they said the investigation has revealed that McKinnon had a rifle at the time of the incident. The gun was recovered on the ground next to him before he was transported to the hospital. A handgun was also recovered from the scene that was on the ground near Gilyard. Both firearms are being tested for forensic evidence at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Detectives continue to receive leads and ask anyone who may have information on the shooting to contact Lt. Colten Lee or Sgt. David Lazo at (386) 329-0115. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers of Northeast Florida at (888) 277-8477. Information that leads to the arrest of a suspect may pay up to $5,000.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Palatka police reveal new details in triple Christmas night shooting