Shooting Victims’ Goal: ‘Staying Alive’

Schuff said that he was unable to find work after the business folded and ended up on the streets of Tarpon Springs, where he's been for the last decade.

"It's very hard to find a job," Schuff said. 

Officer Yourgules said that one of the common obstacles homeless face when attempting to get back on their feet is a lack of identification and/or a birth certificate.

According to Yourgules, a lot of people lose their IDs and are unable to replace them due to the required fees.

Schuff added that he receives money from passers-by and that he doesn't use drugs, but does like to drink beer. 

Brian Kennedy, a friend of Schuff, shared a similar story. 

Kennedy, 54, grew up eating at Pappas' restaurant in Tarpon Springs and found himself homeless in the area about eight years ago. 

After his family's marina floundered, Kennedy never recovered.

"You can't get a job now," Kennedy said. 

The two agreed that they "love Tarpon Springs."

"I like the people here because they're polite," Schuff added.

Schuff and Kennedy said that their plans for the next five years are plain and simple: staying alive.

On Aug. 5, Kennedy and Schuff were shot and badly injured near Tarpon Avenue. Kennedy later died at the hospital, but Schuff has been moved to stable condition, according to Tarpon Springs Police. 

The suspect is still at large and residents with information on the case are advised to call the police department’s detective division at 727-938-2840.