JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A quiet neighborhood commercial strip was shattered early Saturday morning after a shooting left two people hospitalized and local business owners fearing the long-term economic and safety impacts on their community.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) reported that officers responded to the 1200 block of Cesery Boulevard at approximately 1:04 AM on Saturday following reports of two people shot. Two victims suffering from gunshot wounds were taken to a local hospital.
For much of Saturday morning, police cruisers and detectives filled the parking lot of First and Goal Sports Bar Jax, combing the scene for evidence.
Local business employees and owners arriving for work were greeted by police tape and a heavy law enforcement presence. Eric Simmons, the owner of the nearby All Star Barber Lounge, expressed his disbelief after witnessing the aftermath of the violence firsthand.
“I saw the casings, I was shocked,” Simmons said, noting that First and Goal Sports Bar Jax was known to draw a steady crowd. “They had a pretty good business over there. They didn’t have any kind of violence or anything over there, so I’m a bit shocked. I mean, I can’t believe it.”
Simmons added that incidents like this carry broader implications for minority-owned establishments in the area. “People get hurt and you get shut down over there... I’d rather have good business... good conversation, good people, neighbors, and all that kind of stuff than foolishness.”
“You never know what you’re walking into,” said Tigar Compton, an employee at a neighboring business. “It’s disheartening. It impacts the community and the area. It makes it harder for the businesses in there. And it... causes fear.”
“It’s sad all the way around because our world could be so much more kind and compassionate than it is. And it just feels like it’s getting worse. And makes you want to cry,” said Compton.
Detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the gunfire. At this time, no suspect descriptions have been provided, and no arrests have been announced. JSO is urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to contact the Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers.
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