JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) - A 5-year-old Florida girl has died after being shot in the head by a bullet fired during a gun battle over money, sheriff’s officials said.
Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams confirmed the girl’s death in a Tuesday morning news conference. She and her family were inside their car when the fight broke in the Jacksonville neighborhood on Monday afternoon. He said her 4-year-old sibling was injured by debris.
“We lost a child’s life over $180,” Williams said. “We have a family grieving because of $180.”
The sheriff said investigators have identified Jonathan David Hall, 31, and Tom Everett Jr. as suspects. The sheriff’s office issued arrest warrants for both.
In a news conference, Williams said Hall is facing aggravated battery charges, but those charges are expected to be upgraded after the child’s death. Everett is facing second-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder charges, the sheriff said.
Two other people are listed as persons of interest, and there whereabouts remain unknown.
“Anyone who helps these individuals, I promise you we will work hard to work a case against you and prosecute you as well,” he said.
Assistant Chief Mike Kee called the shooting a “heinous and senseless crime.”
The names of the girls have not been released.
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