Orlando police seek suspect in teen's shooting

Orlando police are looking for a killer after a 17-year-old who was fatally shot outside a nightclub.

Authorities say there was a fight that started inside Lux Ultra Lounge on International Drive, which spilled out into the parking lot.  They said the teenager, identified as Terron McCarty, was in the side parking lot when shot once in the back of the head and once in the leg.

Detectives spent Wednesday going business to business, searching for leads in the shooting. They say the club was hosting a spring break teen bash for kids, ages 14-18. Orlando Police Chief John Mina said the club did have extra security for the event.

"We had extra duty officers working; there were three of them. They were focused on the rear parking lot where many of the issues from that club happen," he said.  "We will be sending officers out there to take a look once again at what they can do, what the club owners can do to enhance their security -- whether that is more extra duty officers, surveillance, or anything else. We will make our recommendations."

A description of the suspect was expected to be released soon, and authorities are offering a cash reward of $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.  

Late Wednesday evening, about 100 people gathered for a candlelight vigil, remembering McCarty.  As the parents and brother of the teen mourned his death, friends and relatives surrounded them with support, wondering why someone would kill a teenager.

"I'm heart broken, I'm speechless. I just want this person caught. I'm sad he lost his life like this. He was only 17. They were having a nice time on spring break and you don't come home anymore, that's terrible," said McCarty's friend Mildred Hicks.

McCarty's friend Chiquita Lawrence said, "He say he didn't want to go at first. I just got a call and came here and told his mom. I didn't want to do it but she real strong."

McCarty, known at "T-Rod," attended Oak Ridge High School and also worked at the Paramore Kids Zone. He enjoyed music and dancing.

"He was a happy person, same sign as me, Sagittarius, he was a people person," Chiquita said.

His parents said they want to know who killed their son.

"Stop the violence, put the guns down. You have a long life ahead of you."

And a $5,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest. McCarty's family has created a Go Fund Me account to help cover funeral expenses.  Click here for more information