JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Three men were killed Tuesday night when multiple shots were fired into a car on Town Center Parkway, just off Interstate 295, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.
According to Lt. Craig Waldrup, one person died at the scene, the other two died at the hospital. A fourth person shot was in critical condition, according to JSO.
"We're not sure of their ages, but they appear to be young adults," Waldrup said, referring to the victims. They have not been identified.
Multiple units were sent to the scene near the Gate gas station on Town Center Parkway Tuesday night just before 11 p.m.
PHOTOS: Disturbing scene on Town Center Parkway
It's unclear exactly what led to the violence, but investigators said a vehicle pulled up next to the victims' car, and at least one person inside opened fire before driving off. Investigators were not sure if shots were exchanged between both vehicles.
There were more than two dozen evidence markers at the scene and several bullet holes could be seen in the back passenger door of the victims' car.
Homicide detectives said this does not appear to be a case of road rage.
"It is unusual for this location, however it could occur anywhere. We aren't sure what the background is," Waldrup said..
There was no description about the vehicle that sped away or of who fired the shots. Police were looking through video recorded by surveillance cameras in the area trying to learn more.
Based on JSO's crime mapping system, in the past six months, within a half-mile radius, there were:
- 35 thefts
- 4 assaults
- 1 vehicle theft/break-in
- 1 burglary
- 1 robbery
The University of North Florida sent out an 'Emergency Alert' early Wednesday morning letting students and staff know it happened near the main entrance to campus, but police did not believe the shooting was connected to UNF.
A woman who shops in the area was upset to learn of the quadruple shooting.
'We're moving pretty soon because of all the crazy crime activity around here," Casie Butzirus said.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 866-845-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous and information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.
