UPDATE TWO: Detectives have located the woman involved in Saturday afternoon's Brandon Mall incident. At this time, there are no charges.
This is an on going investigation and any further information will be released by the Public Affairs Office.
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UPDATE: On Saturday, August 5, 2023, at 3:24 p.m., an unknown woman, a man, and two children were at Charley's Cheesesteaks at 509 Brandon Town Center Dr. in Brandon.
The woman was at the counter picking up food when she leaned over and detectives believe the firearm accidentally went off inside her purse, striking the side of the countertop.
At that time, the woman and the other individuals with her fled the scene out of the food court and into the parking lot of the Brandon Mall. At this time there continue to be no reported injuries in relation to this apparent accidental shooting.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is looking to identify the woman in the photos to make sure she did not sustain any injuries. If you know who she is, please call 813-247-8200.
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ORIGINAL RELEASE: On Saturday, August 5, 2023, just after 3:30 p.m., the Communications Center began receiving multiple calls of a possible shooting at the Brandon Town Center Mall.
Once on scene deputies reviewed surveillance footage and discovered a woman had reached for something in her purse and it appears accidentally fired a gun in her bag. At this time we have not located anyone that has been injured in this isolated incident. At no time was this an active shooter situation.
"Every day, our deputies put their lives on the line to protect our communities and today was no different," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our agency's dedication and swift response to this incident demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens."
Any updates on this incident will come from the Public Affairs Office.