On July 19, 2021, 23-year-old Tyeric Simmons of Gainesville was shot and killed outside the 8th Avenue Food Store on the city’s eastside. An SUV reportedly drove up to the store around 10 p.m. and opened fire into a group of people standing outside. Simmons was one of five people hit; four others were injured and survived.

Police say the motive is unclear and no suspects had been identified as of the latest report. Witnesses described the victims as innocent bystanders. The Gainesville Police Department searched for the SUV and continued to investigate, while family members described Simmons as a beloved grandson and nephew. Local residents and businesses reacted with fear and grief, and some nearby establishments temporarily closed after the shooting.

Anyone who witnessed the shooting or has information about the SUV is asked to come forward.