Florida law enforcement has charged another individual in connection with the December shooting of an off-duty federal agent that left him paralyzed. This marks the second arrest tied to the violent incident that unfolded in Riverview.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 23-year-old Tia Heyward on Wednesday. Investigators allege that Heyward assisted Christopher Smith, 18, in the December 27, 2024, shooting of an off-duty Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agent. Heyward faces multiple charges, including first-degree attempted murder with great bodily harm (as an accessory after the fact), aggravated battery with great bodily harm (as an accessory after the fact), and two counts of simple battery.

Smith, apprehended just hours after the shooting, is charged with first-degree attempted murder—discharging a firearm causing great bodily harm, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon causing great bodily harm, tampering with physical evidence, and carrying a concealed firearm.

🚨𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠🚨#teamHCSO has arrested Tia Heyward, 23, in connection to the December 27, 2024, shooting of an off-duty ATF agent.

The incident occurred at 11:07 p.m. at The Alley at Southshore in Riverview. Following a… pic.twitter.com/cwwwXrT9Q6

— HCSO (@HCSOSheriff) January 17, 2025

According to FOX 13 Tampa Bay, the victim is Special Agent Matthew Murray of the ATF’s Tampa Field Division. Murray was shot while attempting to intervene in a parking lot altercation at The Alley at Southshore bowling alley in Riverview. The incident occurred around 11:07 p.m. on December 27, during a family outing with his wife, children, and friends.

Murray’s wife recounted during a pre-trial detention hearing for Smith that her husband identified himself as law enforcement and urged the individuals involved in the fight to leave. Despite this, the situation escalated when someone reportedly threw an object at Murray. Smith later alleged that Murray struck him in the shoulder. Moments later, Smith is accused of shooting Murray in the back of the neck.

Emergency responders rushed Murray to Tampa General Hospital, where he underwent life-saving surgery. However, the injury has left him permanently paralyzed, and he remains in critical condition, his wife confirmed.

Authorities state that Smith fled the scene in a Nissan Altima but was located approximately seven hours later at a nearby residence by Hillsborough County deputies. Smith has been held in custody since December 28 and was denied bond earlier this month. Heyward, meanwhile, is being held on a $42,000 bond.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed his gratitude to investigators and support for the victim, stating, “Our detectives have worked tirelessly to ensure that all those responsible for this senseless act of violence are held accountable and face the consequences of their actions. Our prayers remain with the ATF agent as he courageously embarks on his road to recovery. His bravery and selflessness exemplify his dedication to protecting our community.”