Sarasota Tragedy: Reginald Graves, 45, Fatally Shot on Colson Avenue; Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Homicide
SARASOTA, FL — A community is reeling in the wake of a deadly shooting that occurred Thursday evening in Sarasota’s Newtown neighborhood, prompting an ongoing homicide investigation by the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities responded to reports of gunfire around 7 p.m. on May 1, 2025, in the 2500 block of Colson Avenue. Upon arrival, deputies discovered 45-year-old Reginald Graves suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics with Sarasota County Fire Rescue were immediately dispatched to the scene and administered emergency medical aid.
Graves was rushed to Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where medical staff worked urgently to stabilize him. Tragically, despite all life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at 7:54 p.m. His family has since been notified.
The sheriff’s office has confirmed that the case is being investigated as a homicide. At this time, no arrests have been made, and detectives are pursuing leads to identify a suspect or suspects involved in the fatal shooting. Details surrounding the motive remain unclear.
“The loss of life under such violent circumstances is devastating, not just for the victim’s family but for the entire Sarasota community,” said a sheriff’s office spokesperson. “We are committed to ensuring justice is served.”
Neighbors reported hearing several loud gunshots before seeing emergency vehicles flood the area. Many residents remain on edge as investigators canvass the neighborhood for surveillance footage and witnesses who may have seen or heard anything that could assist the investigation.
Graves, known by friends and neighbors as a friendly and hardworking man, was a long-time resident of the area. Community members have begun placing candles and flowers near the site of the shooting as a growing memorial to honor his life.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 941-366-TIPS (8477). A cash reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of another life to gun violence and calls for peace and accountability.