Hillsborough County deputies rushed to the facility following an urgent warning from onsite security, but gunfire erupted moments after their arrival. Investigators said Pearson crashed his car through a courtyard security gate shortly after noon and immediately shot 41-year-old LeAnne Selman three times. His firearm malfunctioned as Selman attempted to crawl away, leading Pearson to retrieve a handgun from his vehicle and execute her, according to Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister.
Chronister said the gunman then advanced into the cafeteria, sending thousands of terrified employees running for exits or ducking into hiding spots across the campus. John Fraley, a Citibank security guard and Marine Corps veteran, tracked Pearson into a men's restroom and opened fire after taking a tactical position. Pearson sustained five gunshot wounds during the exchange of gunfire and was transported to Tampa General Hospital, where emergency doctors confirmed he died. Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office officials noted that 3,200 employees were present on site during the attack.
