Detectives Seek Known Gang Member In Connection With Shooting

LARGO, FL — The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office said a local gang member is being sought in connection with a shooting at the Handy Corner convenience store in unincorporated Largo Saturday that left a man in critical condition.

At 8:18 p.m. April 24, deputies were called to the Handy Corner at 2325 119th St. and found 21-year-old Justin Darnell Wiley shot in the head during an apparent robbery attempt. He was taken to the hospital where he remains in critical condition.

On Friday, sheriff's detectives identified Demar Hartsfield, 28, of 4150 78th Ave. N., Pinellas Park, as a suspect in the shooting and have obtained a warrant for his arrest on a charge of attempted first-degree murder.

Hartsfield, a known gang member, is described as black, 5 feet 7 inches tall, approximately 170 pounds with a short haircut. He has multiple tattoos on both arms and an eagle tattoo on the front of his neck. He has been known to frequent the Largo and Pinellas Park and may still be armed.

Anyone with information on Hartsfield's whereabouts is asked to call theP inellas County Sheriff's Office at 727-582-6200. To remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS or www.crimestoppersofpinellas.org.