Manatee County Shooting: 23-Year-Old Rickie Riddle III Killed, Chadrick Hunter Charged

 A quiet Bradenton neighborhood was rocked early Sunday morning after a deadly shooting left a 23-year-old man dead, leaving family, friends, and the local community grappling with shock and grief. The incident unfolded around 3:45 a.m. on the 1400 block of 34th Avenue East, transforming what should have been a peaceful night into a scene of tragedy and law enforcement activity that drew neighbors’ attention and concern.

According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded promptly to reports of a shooting with injuries. Upon arrival, they found Rickie Riddle III suffering from a gunshot wound. Law enforcement personnel immediately attempted life-saving measures while awaiting the arrival of emergency medical services. Despite these efforts, Riddle was pronounced dead at the scene, highlighting the sudden and violent nature of the incident that has left a lasting impact on the tight-knit community.

Investigators confirmed that 46-year-old Chadrick Hunter was taken into custody in connection with the shooting. Hunter has been formally charged with second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Authorities noted that both Riddle and Hunter were acquainted and had been socializing at the residence alongside several other individuals prior to the fatal confrontation. This connection adds a personal dimension to the case, emphasizing the tragic consequences of escalating disputes among acquaintances.

While detectives continue to examine the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter, details regarding a possible motive have not yet been released. Investigators are reviewing witness statements, any available surveillance footage, and other evidence to reconstruct the events that culminated in Riddle’s death. Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with additional information to come forward, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in achieving a thorough and accurate investigation.

The aftermath of the shooting has left many in Bradenton mourning. Friends, family members, and neighbors have expressed grief over the loss of a young life and shared memories of Riddle, reflecting both the personal and communal impact of such violence. Social media posts have also highlighted the outpouring of condolences, illustrating the support networks that emerge in the wake of tragic events and the ways communities rally around grieving families.

As the investigation continues, authorities stress the need for patience and caution while details are verified. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the prevalence of gun violence in communities across the United States and the far-reaching effects it has on families and neighborhoods alike. Residents are now left seeking answers, justice, and reassurance that such incidents can be prevented in the future, even as law enforcement works to hold those responsible accountable.