Leesburg police investigate shooting of teen

LEESBURG, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Leesburg police officers are investigating a shooting at the Birchwood Apartments, where a teenager was found injured near the entrance of the complex.

The victim, an 18-year-old black male, had been shot in the head.  He was flown to Ocala Regional Medical Center for treatment. 

"A crime scene was established where the victim was initially located, and a secondary crime scene was also located in an open area, near 1026 Birchwood Court, where the actual shooting incident apparently occurred," said Lt. Joe Iozzi, spokesman with the Leesburg Police Department. 

The Lake County Sheriff's Office offered assistance with the use of a K-9 Unit and deputies are also helping with evidence collection.  As investigators from both agencies surveyed the crime scene, people who live in the neighborhood watched.

We interviewed a woman who just moved here from out of state who did not want to be named.  "I heard multiple gunshots, then looked out the window and saw a man laying on the ground.  I didn't see anybody else. My oldest son was in school, my youngest in the house safely," she said. "For me it's nerve wracking knowing that you can't have your kids playing outside without a stray bullet flying past.  I'm new  to the area and never thought I'd be living in an area like this."

This area is practically in Carver Heights, a high-crime area with so many shootings this year police have dedicated more officers to cracking down on crime.  It's also right near Carver Middle School, where police have notified school officials of the shooting.

Investigators said they did a search for the suspect with a K-9 unit but lost the scent.  They also used a helicopter.   Now, they  just need someone who saw something to come forward.

Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to contact the Leesburg Police Department at 352-728-9862 or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477).