Jacob Pearson Identified in Fatal Citibank Shooting Near Tampa, Florida: One Employee Killed

Jacob Pearson, 35, was identified as the gunman in the November 4, 2026, Citibank shooting near Tampa that killed one employee and left four others injured.

Deadly Shooting at Citibank’s Sabal Center

A deadly shooting at the Citibank office complex in the Tampa area left one female employee dead and the suspected gunman deceased after an armed security guard intervened on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.

Authorities identified the suspect as 35-year-old Jacob Pearson, according to the Associated Press. The shooting occurred at Sabal Center, located at 3800 Citibank Center in the Tampa area near Brandon, Florida. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that it was investigating the incident as a homicide.

What Happened During the Jacob Pearson Shooting?

The sheriff’s office began receiving emergency calls reporting gunfire at approximately 12:11 p.m. According to Sheriff Chad Chronister’s account reported by the Associated Press, Pearson travelled from Orlando to the Citibank campus, a journey of roughly 90 miles.

Investigators said Pearson drove through a security fence and into an outdoor courtyard where employees were having lunch. He then exited his vehicle carrying a rifle and shot a female employee.

The Associated Press reported that the attack was connected to Pearson’s anger over a $2,500 debt collection. Approximately three hours before the shooting, he allegedly contacted an attorney affiliated with Citibank and threatened violence unless a court hearing connected to the dispute was cancelled.

Security Guard Stops the Attack

An armed Citibank security guard confronted Pearson inside the complex’s cafeteria and fired at him. The sheriff’s office confirmed that Pearson was taken to Tampa General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1:12 p.m.

Authorities credited the security team’s intervention with stopping the threat. More than 3,200 people were reportedly on the campus when the shooting occurred, prompting a major law enforcement response and the evacuation and clearing of buildings.

Victim and Injuries

One female employee was pronounced dead at the scene. Initial reporting from WUSF stated that four other people sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Their identities and the full circumstances of those injuries were not included in the initial reports.

The victim’s death has left colleagues, relatives and loved ones facing a devastating loss. Her identity had not been publicly provided in the initial reports reviewed.

Investigation and Workplace Safety

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the shooting. The incident has renewed concerns about workplace security and the importance of responding seriously to threats of violence.

Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, colleagues and everyone affected by this tragedy.

Disclaimer

This report is based on the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announcement and reporting by the Associated Press and local news organisations. The reported debt dispute and threats are based on the sheriff’s account; the full investigative findings may develop as the case proceeds. The victim’s identity has not been confirmed in the sources reviewed.