Two Teenage Girls Hospitalized After Clearwater Shooting; Police Searching for Suspect
Clearwater, FL – March 23, 2025
A quiet evening in Clearwater turned into a terrifying scene of gunfire and chaos, leaving two teenage girls hospitalized and a shooter still on the loose. Clearwater Police Department (CPD) is actively investigating the Saturday night shooting, urging the public to come forward with any information that might lead to an arrest.
The Shooting: A Night of Fear and Uncertainty
The incident occurred at approximately 9:15 p.m. in a residential neighborhood near Drew Street and Highland Avenue. According to initial reports, the two victims—a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old girl—were standing outside when an unknown individual opened fire. Witnesses described hearing multiple gunshots before seeing the girls collapse to the ground.
📞 “We heard the shots and ran outside. The girls were on the ground, and people were screaming,” said one neighbor, who immediately called 911.
Emergency responders from Clearwater Fire and Rescue arrived within minutes, providing lifesaving aid before transporting both victims to a nearby hospital. Officials say one girl suffered a gunshot wound to the leg, while the other was shot in the upper torso, making her condition more serious. Both are currently being treated, and their conditions remain stable.
Search for the Shooter: CPD Investigates
Clearwater Police officers and detectives worked through the night, gathering evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and speaking with witnesses. However, as of Sunday morning, no arrests have been made, and the shooter remains at large.
Investigators are considering multiple motives, but they have not yet confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or random. Authorities believe that at least one suspect fled the scene on foot, but they are also reviewing the possibility of a getaway vehicle.
🚔 “We are doing everything in our power to track down the person responsible for this shooting,” said a CPD spokesperson. “We encourage anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward.”
Community on Edge: Fear and Frustration
Residents of the Clearwater neighborhood where the shooting took place say they are shaken by the violence.
💬 “It’s terrifying to think this could happen right outside our homes,” said one local mother. “These were young girls—kids. Whoever did this needs to be caught before it happens again.”
Some community members have expressed frustration over recent incidents of gun violence, calling for increased patrols and tougher measures to keep Clearwater’s streets safe.
How the Public Can Help
Authorities are urging anyone with information—including potential witnesses, surveillance footage, or anonymous tips—to reach out immediately.
🔹 Clearwater Police Department Tip Line: (727) 562-4242
🔹 Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay: 1-800-873-TIPS (8477)
Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to an arrest.
Moving Forward: A Call for Justice
As the two teenage victims recover in the hospital, their families, friends, and the entire Clearwater community are demanding answers.
While no motive has been confirmed, police assure the public that they are actively working to find those responsible and will provide updates as the investigation unfolds.
For now, Clearwater residents remain on high alert, hoping for swift justice and a safer community.
🚨 Stay tuned for updates as the story develops. 🚨