Crime scene tape Source: Shutterstock

Suncoast Credit Union said a member was fatally shot outside of its East Tampa Community Branch early Friday morning.

While officials with the Tampa (Fla.) Police Department have stated they are investigating the incident as a homicide, few details have emerged.

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Late Friday afternoon, Suncoast President/CEO Kevin Johnson released a statement confirming that the victim was a member of Suncoast.

"This is still an active investigation and a developing situation, so we don't have all of the details yet, but we'd be remiss not to take the time to recognize and acknowledge the loss of a life. What we do know is that the victim in this incident was a member of Suncoast Credit Union. We were absolutely devastated to learn that this member's life was taken in such a violent act. Our hearts break for the family and friends of the victim, and we truly mourn the loss of their life. Our sincerest condolences go out to their family for this unbelievably senseless crime."

Kevin D. Johnson Kevin D. Johnson

The Tampa Police Department said shortly after 6 a.m., officers responded to a report of a person who had been shot outside the Suncoast branch at 1920 E Hillsborough Ave., just four miles west of Suncoast's headquarters at 6801 East Hillsborough Ave.

The member, who suffered a gunshot wound to the upper body, was transported to Tampa General Hospital where the member was later pronounced deceased.

"At this time, detectives are actively working through leads to identify a suspect," Tampa Police said. "Anyone with information about the homicide is asked to contact the Tampa Police Department at (813) 231-6130."

Police have not yet identified the victim.

The branch, closed on Friday, is expected to reopen on Monday.

"The safety and well-being of our loyal members and our hard-working team of employees is and has always been our highest priority," Johnson said. "We will continue to monitor this situation and work closely with law enforcement to ensure that they have everything they need from us to prosecute, and to give this family the justice they deserve."

CU Times will update this story as soon as new information is available.

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Peter Strozniak

Credit Union Times reporter covering credit union operations, fraud, M&As, leagues, business continuity, and breaking news.