Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Fatal Shooting on Colson Avenue; Suspect Sought
SARASOTA, FL — The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has released new information regarding a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday evening in the 2500 block of Colson Avenue in Sarasota, leaving one man dead and a community in shock.
The incident, which took place on the evening of May 1, 2025, prompted a swift emergency response. Upon arrival, deputies discovered 45-year-old Reginald Graves suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds. Paramedics on scene immediately rendered life-saving aid and transported Graves to Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where medical teams continued efforts to stabilize him. Tragically, despite those efforts, Graves was pronounced dead at 7:54 p.m., and his next of kin has since been notified.
Authorities have identified the suspect in the shooting as Trae B. Ward, a 33-year-old Sarasota resident born on October 17, 1991. As of Friday, a warrant for Ward’s arrest has been issued, and law enforcement officials are actively seeking information on his whereabouts.
“This appears to be an isolated incident,” the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office stated in an official update, noting that there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the public. However, they are urging anyone who may have seen anything suspicious or has any relevant information to come forward immediately.
Ward remains at large, and the community is being asked to remain vigilant. Authorities believe he may still be in the Sarasota area or could be seeking refuge elsewhere in the region. He is considered armed and dangerous, and officials are advising the public not to approach him if spotted.
The Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Investigations Section is spearheading the investigation and encourages anyone with tips or knowledge of Ward’s location to call 941-861-4900. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477) or online
Neighbors and community members in the Colson Avenue area expressed concern and sadness over the incident, describing Graves as a familiar and friendly face. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, and detectives are working to piece together the events that led up to the fatal encounter.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has pledged to continue its pursuit of justice for Reginald Graves and his family and remains committed to maintaining transparency with the public as the case develops.
Further updates will be provided as more details become available. Anyone with helpful information is strongly encouraged to act, as community cooperation could be crucial in locating the suspect and bringing closure to this tragic case.