Police arrest 18-year-old in connection to deadly shooting of 23-year-old man in Putnam County

POMONA PARK, Fla. — UPDATED STORY 5/26/2021:

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office arrested 18-year-old Fernando Vargas in connection to a deadly shooting in Pomona Park Tuesday night.

Deputies say that Vargas and a 16-year-old were playing basketball in Pomona Park when they saw 23-year-old Christian Sanchez arguing with his girlfriend. For unknown reasons, Vargas and Sanchez got into a verbal altercation.

Sanchez’s girlfriend then walked away from the park with Vargas to get her car from Sanchez’s home located on Keown Avenue.

Sanchez followed the two in his car as they walked along the street, according to the sheriff’s office.

Another argument happened between Vargas and Sanchez this time resulting in shots being fired. Investigators say that Vargas shot Sanchez while he was sitting in his car.

Witnesses in the area tried to save Sanchez with CPR as they waited for medical assistance. Sanchez died at the scene.

After the shooting, Vargas fled the scene, and deputies then attempted to locate the suspect.

Deputies were able to make contact with Vargas Tuesday afternoon. He was arrested and taken into custody without bond. The sheriff’s office says he is not being charged with any crime at this time.

The sheriff’s office is still looking for the gun used in the shooting.

ORIGINAL STORY 5/25/2021:

A 23-year-old man was shot and killed Monday outside a home on Keown Avenue in Pomona Park, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.

The shooting happened just before 6:30 p.m., police said.

Christian Eric Sanchez, 23, died at the scene.

Detectives are actively investigating the incident and are asking for the public’s help.

If you saw any suspicious activity at Willard F. Hazen Memorial Park Monday evening or if you have any information about the shooting, contact Crime Stoppers of NE Florida at 1-888-277-8477 or download the P3 app.

The Sheriff’s Office said tips are anonymous and eligible for a reward if they lead to an arrest.

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