A tragic incident unfolded in the early morning hours of Wednesday, as a violent confrontation between rival gang members resulted in a fatal shooting. The victim, a 28-year-old woman, was caught in the crossfire, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is spearheading the investigation into the events that transpired on Leavens Road, the site of the deadly gunfire exchange.
The initial confrontation reportedly took place at a residence in the Willow Oak area, involving two individuals identified as Joshua Clark and Jose Coronado. Both men are known to have affiliations with rival gangs. The situation escalated when Coronado allegedly fired his weapon, inadvertently striking his girlfriend, Mary Dino.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Coronado rushed Dino to Rhiles Road, roughly a mile from the original scene. Tragically, Dino succumbed to her injuries before she could receive medical assistance. Coronado is reported to have abandoned her on a truck’s tailgate, urging bystanders to call 911 and transport her to a hospital before fleeing the scene.
Sheriff Grady Judd voiced his frustration over the public’s perception of drug-related crimes as nonviolent, emphasizing the lethal nature of such disputes. Coronado is currently wanted in Hillsborough County for failing to appear in court on meth trafficking charges, adding to the urgency of the manhunt.
Later, authorities discovered Coronado’s vehicle nearly 20 miles away on Highway 17 near Fort Meade. Deputies were able to halt his escape using a precision immobilization technique. However, Joshua Clark remains at large, with law enforcement actively pursuing him.
As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the aftermath of the violence that has disrupted lives and underscored the ongoing issue of gang-related activities in the area. Residents are urged to provide any information that could assist in locating Clark and resolving this case.
The sheriff’s office remains committed to gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses, determined to bring those responsible to justice. The tragic loss of a young woman’s life highlights the broader societal impact of gang violence and the urgent need for intervention.