Woman shot, killed by crossfire during gunfight at Merritt Island apartment complex

Fatal shooting investigated at Tropical Manor apartments

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BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – A 36-year-old woman was killed early Friday when shots were fired during a fight at a Merritt Island apartment complex, according to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies said Tasha Smith, of Merritt Island, died in the shooting, which happened around 12:20 a.m. at the Tropical Manor apartments.

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According to the sheriff’s office, deputies were called to a “loud disturbance” and learned that a woman had been shot. The woman, identified as Smith, was taken to a hospital and was pronounced dead, deputies said.

Sheriff’s officials said a preliminary investigation determined that the incident initially began as a physical altercation in the parking lot. The fight escalated and two males exchanged fire, according to deputies.

Smith, who was not a participant in the shooting but was in the area, was shot, said deputies, who added that she did not appear to be an intended target.

An investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made as of this writing.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to please contact Agent Vince Bustillo of the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit via the at 321-633-8413 or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS. All calls to CRIMELINE are confidential and callers can remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward.


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