First Homicide of 2013 Appears to be Drug Related

One man was killed and another man critically injured in a shooting this morning at a gas station on Manatee Avenue East and detectives are asking for help in solving this case quickly.

Detectives say they believe the first homicide of the new year was a drug-related shooting.

According to a Manatee County Sheriff's report:

Three men went to the Marathon gas station at 1832 Manatee Ave. E. shortly before 2 a.m. to pick up some items. Witnesses told detective that three other men met them at the gas station and fired shots at the first group.

Detectives are withholding the victims' names.

One man died from his gun-shot wound after being transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital. A second victim was taken to Blake Hospital where he is listed in critical condition but is expected to survive.

The third man ran from the scene and was not injured. No one has been arrested at this time. Detectives did not name any suspects or release a detailed description of the suspects.

The crime occurred within the city limits of Bradenton and is being investigated by the newly formed Manatee Homicide Investigation Unit.

Detectives say the shooting appears to be drug related.  

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at 941-747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 866-634-TIPS.