Florida Man Charged with Attempted Murder After Allegedly Shooting His Three Sons(People.com)
On May 18, 2025, Chris Brown, a 36-year-old resident of Ruskin, Florida, was arrested and charged with multiple serious offenses, including two counts of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon, after allegedly shooting his three juvenile sons.
According to a criminal affidavit, the incident occurred as the boys were walking to a community pool, actively trying to avoid their father due to prior issues at his residence. Brown reportedly approached one son with a semiautomatic pistol, struck him in the face, causing the gun to discharge and graze the boy’s jaw and ear. As the other two sons confronted him, Brown allegedly fired multiple rounds at them while retreating to his vehicle.
Surveillance footage confirmed the sequence of events. One son also recorded a phone call in which Brown threatened further violence, stating, “I tried to take your life” and “you won’t make it to Wednesday.”
Brown was apprehended the same day and is facing additional charges, including being a felon in possession of a firearm, resisting arrest, criminal mischief, and burglary. Due to his status as a felon, he is ineligible for parole. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 22.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the case. The names of the victims have not been released due to their status as minors.