A Belleview man has been arrested and charged with attempted murder after he allegedly shot a victim outside a local restaurant, wounding two others inside the establishment.
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 reference to shots being fired.
Upon arrival, a BPD officer entered the restaurant and located two victims who had sustained gunshot wounds. A third victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds was also found in the restaurant’s parking lot.
The victims were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Tropical Vibes Restaurant & Bar opened its doors in November 2023. The restaurant regularly stays open later on Friday and Saturday, converting into a nightclub with live music and dancing.
According to police, witnesses advised that a man – later identified as 25-year-old Sammy Hill – had confronted the third victim in the parking lot regarding money that was allegedly owed to him.
During the altercation in the parking lot, Hill allegedly retrieved a firearm from a vehicle and fired multiple rounds, striking the third victim. Stray rounds also proceeded to enter the restaurant, wounding the two additional victims.
Hill fled from the restaurant prior to the arrival of law enforcement. However, BPD stated that a vehicle registered to Hill was observed in the parking lot, and Hill returned to the scene and attempted to retrieve his vehicle at around 8:50 a.m. that morning.
Officers detained Hill, interviewed him, and transported him to Marion County Jail, where he is currently being held without bond. He is facing a slew of charges that include attempted murder (one count), aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (three counts), shooting into an occupied establishment (11 counts), discharging a firearm in public (one count), and criminal mischief with $1,000 or more in damage (one count).
On Tuesday, August 26, Hill is scheduled to appear in court at 9 a.m., according to jail records.
Belleview Police Chief Terry Holland released the following statement after Hill’s arrest:
“I want to commend our officers for their swift response and dedication in bringing this dangerous situation under control. Their hard work and professionalism ensured that the suspect was quickly identified and taken into custody. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families as they recover, and we remain committed to supporting them throughout this difficult time.”
BPD’s investigation into the shooting remains active and ongoing. If anyone has additional information regarding this incident, please contact Belleview police at 352-245-7044.