In response to media requests for comment on the decision not to pursue prosecution of Chase GILLESPIE (20), who possessed and discharged a firearm during the April 27, 2024, shooting incident at the Cabana Live Club, prosecutors issued the following statement:

“Our office carefully reviewed all of the investigative findings presented by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office prior to reaching this decision. While legally unable to possess a concealed firearm based on his age, prosecutors weighed GILLESPIE’s actions that may have prevented further injury to himself or others during a mass shooting incident, against the criminal violation. Based on the totality of the evidence and no reasonable likelihood of prevailing at trial, prosecution of GILLESPIE was deemed not justified.”

GILLESPIE was the second person identified as discharging a firearm in response to shots initially fired by Christopher BOUIE JR (16), during an event at the club. The Seminole County Sheriff's Office did not arrest Mr. Gillespie, instead presenting their investigation into his actions for review.

BOUIE JR. was charged as an adult and is currently facing five (5) counts of Attempted Second Degree Murder (F2), each punishable by up to fifteen (15) years in prison, and one (1) count of Possession of a Firearm by a Minor Under the Age of Eighteen (M1), that carries a maximum sentence of one (1) year incarceration.

No trial date has been set in this case and updates on future court appearances will be available on the Seminole County Clerk of Courts website.

*Updated 09/24/2024