Woman shot in street, OCSO seek answers

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (WALA) - The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office said deputies are investigating a shooting that took place around 5:15 p.m. Wednesday at the intersection of Thornhill Road and South Avenue in the Fort Walton Beach area.

Bill Campbell has called Thornhill Road in Fort Walton Beach home for 20 years.

In that time, he said he's seen a lot but nothing prepared him for the shooting.

"I'm surprised it happened here because we have a lot of nice families that live here. I just didn't think something like that would happen," said Campbell.

Authorities said the victim, Tamera Sheffield, 32, was arguing with a man in the street when he pulled a gun and fired, hitting Sheffield several times.

Deputies said the shooter then jumped into a car and sped off.

Witnesses said the victim tried to flee from the shooting but collapsed face first in the street in front of her home.

Campbell said he was inside his home when he heard around six to nine shots.

He said he ran outside to see what happened and people from all over the neighborhood had gathered around Sheffield.

"The thing that was shocking to me was, she was laying face down when people were trying to help her. She continued to lay face down until the paramedics arrived," said Campbell.

Deputies said Sheffield was then LifeFlighted to the hospital.

Campbell said he hopes the crime was an isolated incident.

"It's disappointing. I've been a school teacher for 27 years, and I've worked with young people. I've never seen rage escalate to shootings like this," Campbell said.

Authorities said Sheffield is listed in serious condition.

They said the car the suspect was driving was later found ditched on Greenwood Avenue in Fort Walton Beach.

If you have any information on the crime, contact the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office or the Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at (850) 863-TIPS.