Tampa police name victim in Curtis Hixon Park shooting death

TAMPA — The name of the 18-year-old who was fatally shot at Curtis Hixon Park this past weekend was released by police on Tuesday.

Antonio “Jay Jay” McGuire Jr. had been shot and wounded when officers found him early Sunday morning near the east side of the park. Paramedics took him to Tampa General Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Tampa police are still looking for the shooter.

The shooting may be linked to a brawl that broke out hours beforehand. About 100 or so people gathered at the park at 600 N Ashley Dr. shortly after 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Then a large brawl broke out, one captured on nearby surveillance cameras. Tampa officers broke up the fight and the crowd.

Then at 12:14 a.m. Sunday, police received several calls reporting gunshots in the park. Officers returned to the park and said they found a wounded McGuire and rendered medical aid.

Police do not believe the shooting was random. Now Tampa police are seeking the public’s help in this case, and are looking for any cell phone video or social media posts that could aid the homicide investigation.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at (800) 873–8477, or send anonymous tips, video or photos to crimestopperstb.com or send a mobile tip using the P3 Tips app.