Ybor City shooting suspect claims self-defense in deadly incident
The suspect in the Ybor City shooting that killed two people and injured 15 others claimed he fired in self-defense because he feared for his safety, according to court records. Tyrell Phillips, 22, was arrested on a charge of second-degree murder with a firearm. Police found a loaded gun on one of the victims, but it was still holstered. Video footage reviewed by police contradicts Phillips' claim that the victim reached for his waistband before he opened fire. Phillips, an aspiring rapper, has a previous arrest for marijuana possession and driving under the influence. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor called for gun law changes to prevent further incidents of gun violence.
