Spring Break Chaos: 4 Alabama Teens from Rival Gangs Arrested After Panama City Beach Shootings!
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. — What was supposed to be a fun spring break getaway turned into a wave of violence and arrests as four teenagers from Dothan, Alabama were taken into custody following multiple shootings in Panama City Beach this past weekend. Authorities are calling the incidents a brazen display of gang‑linked violence that terrified vacationers and prompted an intensified police response.
According to the Panama City Beach Police Department and Bay County Sheriff’s Office, the group of teens crossed state lines with other spring breakers but soon became embroiled in conflict. On Saturday night near the bustling Pier Park — a popular entertainment and shopping area — gunfire erupted during what police described as an exchange between rival gangs from the Dothan area. Three people were rushed to local hospitals with non‑life‑threatening injuries as frightened beachgoers scrambled for cover.
Three of the suspects — 18‑year‑old Kevin Tyrone Moore, 15‑year‑old Jamarion Lamont Baker, and 17‑year‑old Avaughn Ahmad Brown — now face a range of serious charges, including attempted homicide and possession of a firearm as a minor, among others.
In a related but separate incident earlier in the week, 18‑year‑old Isaiah Tyshawn McKenzie
In a related but separate incident earlier in the week, 18‑year‑old Isaiah Tyshawn McKenzie was arrested after firing multiple shots into the air from a vehicle near a Thomas Drive restaurant and bar district. No injuries were reported in that incident, but McKenzie was charged with discharging a firearm in public and related weapons offenses.
Panama City Beach Police Chief J.R. Talamantez warned that officers are tracking down all those involved and sent a blunt message to would‑be troublemakers: “We are not going to put up with it.” Officials also highlighted ongoing concerns about late‑night promotions and large crowds during spring break that can draw unsupervised, potentially dangerous visitors.
The arrests have reignited debate over safety and law enforcement strategies in busy tourist hubs during peak season, as Florida beach cities aim to balance vibrant spring break culture with public safety.
