The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man for four counts of attempted murder.
On April 13, 2026, at 8:07 p.m., deputies responded to the 5500 block of State Road 674 in Wimauma in reference to a shooting. Deputies learned that four victims were on a boat fishing on Lake Wimauma when Leo Palacios, 60, began shouting at them before going into his residence and getting a firearm. He fired multiple times towards the victims on the boat, but missed.
One of the victims recognized Palacios, and deputies located the suspect at his residence.
Palacios was arrested and faces several charges:
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm
- Aggravated Battery Deadly Weapon Firearm - Discharge (x4)
- Attempted Murder in the Second Degree Firearm - Discharge (x4)
- Discharge Firearm in Public or on Residential Property
"What should have been a peaceful evening on the water turned into a very dangerous situation because of one man's actions. Violence is never the answer, and we are fortunate no one was injured," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our priority is keeping our community safe, and we will continue to take immediate action against those who put others' lives at risk."
This remains an active investigation. Any updates will be provided by the Public Affairs Office.