POLK COUNTY – Early Thursday morning, detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office apprehended a 15-year-old male, Demarion Wilson of Mulberry, on charges of attempted murder and various other crimes.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:38 am when PCSO Deputies responded to reports of gunshots in the parking lot of the McDonald’s restaurant located at 1805 Shepherd Road in Lakeland.
According to the victim, Wilson attempted to rob an employee at gunpoint behind the restaurant. Sensing the danger, the victim managed to alert two individuals in a nearby parked vehicle to call 911. In a reckless act, Wilson fired three shots towards the car, hitting it once. Subsequently, Wilson fled the scene on foot, and fortunately, none of the victims sustained any injuries.
Deputies swiftly established a perimeter in the area, and with the assistance of a K-9 Unit, Wilson was apprehended while hiding in the bushes behind a Publix shopping plaza. At the time of his arrest, Wilson was found in possession of a Glock 9mm firearm and was wearing a black mask.
Sheriff Grady Judd expressed his dismay, stating, “It’s deeply troubling that a 15-year-old would engage in such reprehensible behavior, robbing people at gunpoint and even firing shots at them. This kind of conduct is utterly unacceptable, and as a result, we intend to consult with the State Attorney’s Office regarding charging this suspect as an adult. We need to send a clear message to young individuals that we will not tolerate such dangerous and abhorrent actions.”
Wilson’s charges include three counts of attempted murder (FL), attempted armed burglary (F2), discharging a firearm in a public place (M1), and possession of marijuana (M1) and paraphernalia (M1). The investigation is still ongoing, and it is likely that additional charges will be added.