CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — The Citrus County Sheriff's Office is searching for a gunman in a fatal shooting and reminding residents to be vigilant during their investigation.
- Shots reported near Copeland Park area of Crystal River
- Witnesses saw man running from scene, officials said
- Victim pronounced dead at Seven Rivers Hospital
- Shooting remains under investigation
Deputies responded Thursday night to the area of Northeast 1st Street in Crystal River after reports of gunshots in the Copeland Park area.
Authorities said witnesses said they heard gunshots and saw a man running from the park.
Upon further investigation, deputies discovered that a 26-year-old man identified as Tyler Hopkins, of Hernando, Fl., has been transported to Seven Rivers Hospital and was pronounced dead.
Major Crimes detectives were called out to secure the scene to investigate. They learned the homicide occurred in the front yard of home off of Northeast 1st Street.
An AlertCitrus was issued to residents in the area, urging them to lock their doors and remain inside. The investigation remains active but no additional details have been released.
Authorities say no one else was injured during the shooting and that the motive is still unclear.
"At this time, Major Crime detectives are working diligently to make sure we turn over every stone. We will unwaveringly continue our investigation into the unfortunate death of our victim, Tyler Hopkins," said Sheriff Prendergast. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Tyler."
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the Citrus County Sheriff's Office at 352-726-1121, or to remain anonymous please call Citrus County Crime Stoppers at 1-888-ANY-TIPS.