Police in Bradenton are conducting a search for a missing woman who was last seen with a suspect involved in a shooting at the Tropicana plant.
According to the Bradenton Police Department, an employee entered the plant on Monday night and shot another employee.
The suspect, identified as 50-year-old Demetrius Tyronn Bell, is believed to have left the scene in a black 2015 Camaro and has not been seen since.
The missing woman, identified as 38-year-old Alicia Nicole Bang, was seen leaving the plant with Bell on the same night.
Police now fear for her safety and have launched an active search for both the suspect and the missing woman.
The Tropicana plant, located on 9th Street East, has become the focal point of the investigation.
Bradenton Police revealed these developments in the past hour, emphasizing the urgency of locating Bell and ensuring the well-being of Bang.
They described Bell as a man with an extensive criminal record and a history of violence.
The authorities had not previously mentioned their search for Bang but now express concerns for her safety.
The shooting incident occurred shortly before 10:30 PM when Bell, who is an employee at the Tropicana plant, gained access to the building despite not being scheduled to work that shift.
He specifically targeted a co-worker who was on a different shift and shot them before promptly leaving the scene.
Fellow employees recognized Bell at the time of the incident.
The police sympathize with the victim’s family and coworkers, highlighting the need for a safe work environment.
They urge anyone with information about the whereabouts of Demetrius Tyronn Bell or Alicia Nicole Bang to contact the Bradenton Police Department immediately.
The investigation into the shooting and the search for the suspect and missing woman are ongoing.