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UPDATE: March 19, 2026

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a 16-year-old in connection with a fatal shooting in Ruskin that left one man dead and another person injured.

On March 15, 2026, at 1:19 a.m., our 911 Dispatch Center received a call about a shooting in the 5000 block of White Chicory Drive in Apollo Beach.

When deputies arrived, they found a vehicle in a ditch along 19th Avenue Northeast in Ruskin with two people suffering from gunshot wounds. The driver, 19-year-old Jonathan Blue, was taken to the hospital, where he later died. A female passenger was also taken to the hospital and is currently in stable condition.

Detectives say the shooting happened during a planned narcotics transaction at the residence. During that interaction, gunfire ensued.

Through their investigation, detectives identified 16-year-old James Middlebrooks as the suspect.
Middlebrooks was initially charged on March 15, 2026, with Minor in Possession of a Firearm and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

After further investigation and consultation with the State Attorney’s Office, a warrant was issued on March 18, 2026, charging him with First-Degree Premeditated Murder, Attempted First-Degree Premeditated Murder, and two counts of Shooting at or Within a Vehicle.

“This was a senseless act of violence that took a young life and left another person injured. Those responsible will be held accountable,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Our thoughts are with the victim’s family as they face this unimaginable loss. We remain committed to seeking justice and keeping our community safe.”

Middlebrooks was already in custody at the Department of Juvenile Justice and has since been transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center for processing.

This remains an active investigation. Any updates will come from the Public Affairs Office.

Homicide Investigation Underway in Ruskin | HCSO, Tampa, FL HCSO Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, Sheriff Chad Chronister, Tampa, FL

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