Brayden Raul Gomez, 17, Charged with Murder After Lyft Driver Shot Dead Near Panama City Beach

BAY COUNTY, FL (WTVY) — A tragic act of violence unfolded early Saturday morning near Panama City Beach, Florida, where a Lyft driver was shot and killed during what authorities believe was a routine ride-share transaction gone terribly wrong. The Bay County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 17-year-old Brayden Raul Gomez, a local resident, and charged him with an open count of murder in connection with the deadly shooting.

According to a statement released by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched in the early morning hours to a road near the popular tourist destination after receiving reports of a person down. When deputies arrived, they found an adult male in the roadway suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite efforts to render aid, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Ruth Corley confirmed that the victim was a Lyft driver but has not yet released his name pending notification of next of kin. Authorities believe the shooting took place during or shortly after a ride-share trip, although the specific circumstances leading up to the shooting are still under investigation.

The alleged shooter, Brayden Raul Gomez, was quickly identified as the passenger in the vehicle and taken into custody not long after deputies arrived on scene. Gomez, though only 17, is being charged with an open count of murder—a serious charge that allows prosecutors flexibility to pursue either first- or second-degree murder, depending on further findings.

“This was a senseless and brutal act of violence,” said Corley. “Our deputies worked swiftly to identify and apprehend the suspect. We are committed to pursuing justice for the victim and his loved ones.”

Investigators have not yet publicly disclosed a motive for the shooting, and it remains unclear whether the act was premeditated or the result of an altercation. No weapons have been officially described by law enforcement at this time, though the victim’s injuries were confirmed to be from a firearm.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the Bay County community, particularly among those who work in the ride-share and gig economy sectors. Many local drivers have expressed concern over safety protocols, calling on both Lyft and law enforcement to do more to protect workers who are often alone and vulnerable during late-night and early-morning shifts.

“This is heartbreaking. We’re just trying to make a living,” said a fellow Lyft driver who asked to remain anonymous. “When something like this happens, it rattles everyone. We hope the company steps up and helps the victim’s family and does something to better protect its drivers.”

Lyft has not yet issued an official public statement regarding the incident. It is unknown whether Gomez used his own account to hail the ride or accessed the service through another person’s credentials.

Legal experts note that because of the severity of the charge and the nature of the crime, Gomez is likely to be tried as an adult under Florida law, despite his age. The case will now proceed through the Bay County judicial system, where prosecutors will determine the appropriate degree of murder and begin assembling evidence for what could become a high-profile trial.

The sheriff’s office has encouraged any potential witnesses or individuals with information to come forward. “We urge anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the area Saturday morning to contact our department,” Corley stated.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a man who was simply doing his job. Friends and family of the victim are expected to release a statement in the coming days, and a memorial effort may be organized to honor his life and support his loved ones.

This will be updated as more information becomes available.