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Suspects Sought In Shotgun Shooting

News Channel 8 photo by CHRIS COYNER

Officers investigate at the scene of the shooting.

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By RAY REYES | The Tampa Tribune

Published: May 11, 2008

TAMPA Police continued the search today for two men they say opened fire on a group of people at a late-night cookout Saturday.

Tyrone Johnny Speller, 28 of Tampa, was shot in the wrist and face about 11 p.m. Saturday at an apartment complex on 8725 Del Ray Court, police said. Speller was taken by helicopter to Tampa General Hospital, where he was listed in stable condition Saturday.

His condition was not available today. Emergency room staff told police Saturday that Speller's injuries do not appear to be life-threateningvbut that he would lose his right hand and right eye.

Two men armed with shotguns ran toward Speller while he and other people were having a cookout, Tampa police Sgt. Terry Goff said. Speller raised his right arm to cover his face as one of the armed men fired at him.

Speller's wrist caught much of the blast, but he was also struck in the face with shotgun pellets, according to a police report. The suspects then took off in a black car.

The motive for the shooting is unclear.

"This was just a spontaneous thing," Goff said. "These guys just popped up, shot him in the face and fled."

News Channel 8 videographer Chris Coyner contributed to this report. Reporter Ray Reyes can be reached at (813) 259-7920 or rreyes@tampatrib.com.

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