A Belleview man has been detained and charged with attempted murder after reportedly shooting a victim outside a nearby restaurant and injuring two others inside.
On Saturday, July 26, at around 1:40 a.m., Belleview Police Department officers responded to Tropical Vibes Restaurant and Bar, located at 11008 SE 66th Terrace, in response to shots fired.
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Upon arrival, a BPD officer entered the eatery and discovered two victims with gunshot wounds. A third victim with several gunshot wounds was discovered in the restaurant’s parking area.
The victims were taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Tropical Vibes Restaurant & Bar launched in November 2023. The restaurant frequently stays open longer on Friday and Saturday nights, transforming into a nightclub with live music and dancing.
According to police, witnesses reported that a man, later identified as 25-year-old Sammy Hill, questioned the third victim in the parking lot over money supposedly owed to him.
During the parking lot altercation, Hill allegedly pulled a weapon from a vehicle and fired multiple bullets, striking a third person. Stray shots also entered the restaurant, injuring two additional people.
Hill fled the restaurant before police arrived. However, BPD reported that a vehicle identified as belonging to Hill was seen in the parking lot, and Hill returned to the location about 8:50 a.m. to try to reclaim his vehicle.
Officers detained Hill, conducted an interview, and transported him to Marion County Jail, where they are holding him without bond. He is facing several accusations, including attempted murder (one count), aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (three counts), firing into an occupied facility (11 counts), discharging a handgun in public (one count), and criminal mischief causing $1,000 or more in damage.
According to jail records, Hill is expected to appear in court on Tuesday, August 26, at 9 a.m.
Belleview Police Chief Terry Holland issued the following statement following Hill’s arrest:
The BPD investigation into the shooting is still open and ongoing. If you have any other information about this event, please contact Belleview police at 352-245-7044.
