Tampa:A gunman stressed by debt problems opened fire on Citibank employees in Tampa, Florida, resulting in the death of one employee before being shot and killed by a security guard.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident occurred on Wednesday when the gunman, identified as 35-year-old Jacob Pearson, stormed into a Citibank branch in Tampa. Prior to the attack, Pearson contacted a law firm contracted by Citibank, threatening to arrive with an AR-15 rifle and a bulletproof vest unless a court case concerning his unpaid debt of $2,500 was dropped.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister reported that CCTV footage showed Pearson driving a car through the fence into the Citibank premises before entering the building with the rifle. After confronting a Citibank employee, he moved into the cafeteria and main office area, causing employees to flee or hide.
Pearson exchanged gunfire with Citibank security officers, resulting in him being shot five times. He was critically wounded and later died from his injuries at Tampa General Hospital. The incident also resulted in the death of a 41-year-old female Citibank employee who had worked for the bank for nine years.
Initial investigations suggest that the attack was targeted, as Pearson was carrying 90 rounds of ammunition, indicating an intention to continue the attack if not stopped. Jane Fraser, CEO of Citigroup, stated that the bank is cooperating with police in the investigation and has increased security measures in response to the incident.