Officers investigating shooting on Riberia Street in St. Augustine

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — Video shows a trauma helicopter taking off from Vickers Park in St. Augustine on Tuesday morning.

Police told Action News Jax a victim was shot in the back and the gunman took off.

The St. Augustine Police Department and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office conducted a large search with guns drawn, a helicopter and K-9s.

Employees across the street from the park said officers told them not to leave their buildings.

Fe Fulton said, “We were hoping they could see the guy because we thought that, heard that the guy that shot was still on the loose.”

The search for the gunman sent parents running to the nearby Galimore Community Center, where children attend summer camp.

“It was certainly worrisome for them,” said Nancy Kennedy who works in the Lincolnville area.

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She drove over to the park when she noticed police.

“This is a quiet neighborhood. I mean, you have minor things happen, but nothing to that extent,” she said.

According to officers, Derick Eubanks was arrested in the backyard of a home on Washington Street, less than a mile from the shooting scene.

Kennedy said, “We all feel safe in our neighborhood. This is a lovely neighborhood. Everybody is friendly, and we’re a pretty tight neighborhood back here.”

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Other families who have lived in the area for decades said the park draws crime.

Several parents said they regularly see people gathering and staying overnight in the park.

Action News Jax requested the calls for service to Vickers Park.

According to reports officers responded to the address 61 times in 2018.

So far, in 2019, the number has climbed to 184 calls.

Records show earlier this year, Eubanks was charged with battery, resisting an officer and marijuana possession.

According to police the victim knows Eubanks and was able to identify him as the shooter.
Eubanks' listed address is in Lincolnville.

Cox Media Group