Gainesville Man Arrested After Firing Gun at Phoenix Apartments
Mykell Torrence Hicks is accused of firing 17 rounds at Phoenix Apartmens
Gainesville Man Arrested After Firing 17 Rounds in Apartment Complex Parking Lot
GAINESVILLE, FL – A local man is facing serious charges after allegedly firing 17 rounds in a crowded apartment complex parking lot, prompting a massive police response and raising concerns about public safety in residential areas.
Mykell Torrence Hicks, 31, was arrested Saturday and charged with firing a gun in public and possession of marijuana with intent to sell following the incident at Phoenix Apartments on SW 26th Way.
The Incident
According to the Gainesville Police Department, officers responded to multiple 911 calls around 4:20 p.m. on January 3rd reporting shots fired at the apartment complex located at 3200 SW 26th Way. Witnesses told police they saw several people running into a nearby apartment after hearing the gunfire.
When officers arrived, five individuals emerged from the apartment, including Hicks. During questioning, Hicks provided a detailed account of what he claimed transpired.
Suspect’s Account
Hicks told investigators that when he exited his apartment, he observed an unknown individual aiming a gun in his direction. He said he quickly took cover behind a vehicle and retrieved his own pistol from his waistband.
According to Hicks’ statement, he heard multiple gunshots but was uncertain if they were directed at him. He claimed to have then witnessed the unknown shooter firing at a group of people located north of the apartment complex. In response, Hicks said he stood up and fired approximately 17 rounds toward the north end of the complex.
After discharging his weapon, Hicks admitted to running back inside his apartment and placing the gun on a counter. He acknowledged that he was unaware if any of his shots struck anyone but believed one round may have hit the window of a black Cadillac parked in the area.
Evidence and Charges
Police recovered multiple shell casings from the parking lot near where Hicks admitted to firing his weapon. The arresting officer noted in the report that Hicks “shot multiple rounds recklessly in an apartment complex, with multiple residents and citizens in the area.”
The investigation took a significant turn when officers obtained a search warrant for Hicks’ apartment. During the search, they discovered approximately 491.3 grams of marijuana in his bedroom, along with resealable baggies and a scale – items that law enforcement officials say are “indicative of someone who sells narcotics.”
Legal Proceedings
Hicks, who has no prior local criminal convictions, appeared before Judge Phillip Pena who set bail at $175,000. The substantial bond amount reflects the serious nature of the charges and the potential danger to public safety.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in residential areas and the risks associated with individuals taking matters into their own hands rather than contacting law enforcement.
Community Impact
The incident at Phoenix Apartments serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of discharging firearms in populated areas. With multiple residents present during the shooting, the potential for tragedy was significant. The fact that no injuries were reported appears to be more a matter of luck than intent.
Local residents expressed concern about safety in their community, with many questioning what measures can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the legal process moves forward, the case against Hicks will likely focus on whether his actions constituted legitimate self-defense or reckless endangerment of the community.
This story is developing. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.