Jacob Pearson Shooting, Suspect Identified in Deadly Citibank Campus Attack in Tampa, Florida

According to Sheriff Chad Chronister, Pearson had made threats against Citibank earlier that Wednesday after receiving a court summons concerning approximately $2,556 in credit-card debt. Investigators said he contacted a law firm working with the bank and threatened to arrive at its offices with an AR-15 rifle and body armor unless the court matter was cancelled.

The threat was reported to Citibank security, which alerted the Orlando Police Department. Officers attempted to locate Pearson at his residence, but he had already left. Authorities subsequently shared the warning with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office as efforts continued to locate him.

How the Tampa Shooting Unfolded

Shortly before noon, Citibank notified Hillsborough County authorities of a credible threat to its Tampa campus. Deputies responded to the property.

At approximately 12:10 p.m., investigators say Pearson drove his vehicle through a security gate. One minute later, he opened fire on the campus, striking employee Leanne Selman.

According to the sheriff’s account, Pearson’s rifle malfunctioned after several shots. He returned to his vehicle, retrieved a handgun and continued the attack. Selman was fatally wounded and pronounced dead at the scene.

The gunfire prompted panic among employees, many of whom were on the large campus during their lunch break. Pearson subsequently entered the building and made his way toward the cafeteria.

Security Guard Confronts the Gunman

A Citibank security official, identified as 38-year-old John Fraley, confronted Pearson inside the cafeteria and shot him. Fraley, who also held a senior intelligence and security position at the company, was praised by Sheriff Chronister for his actions.

Deputies reached the cafeteria shortly afterward and began providing medical assistance. Pearson was transported to Tampa General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at approximately 1:12 p.m.

Authorities said the security response prevented the attack from becoming even more deadly. Investigators reported that Pearson had brought approximately 90 rounds of ammunition and fired 15 shots before he was stopped.

Victim Remembered as a Longtime Employee

Leanne Selman, 41, had worked for Citibank for nine years and served as a Learning Advisor for Citi Security and Investigative Services. Her death has devastated colleagues and loved ones.

The sheriff’s office confirmed that four additional people were taken to hospital following the incident. Their injuries were described as non-life-threatening, and all four were subsequently released.

Investigation Continues

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the shooting, including the events leading up to the attack and the response by security personnel and deputies.

Authorities said Pearson had no known criminal history. Investigators have described the attack as targeted against Citibank, while emphasizing that Selman had no known personal connection to him.

The tragedy has raised renewed questions about workplace security and the importance of responding quickly to credible threats. For Citibank employees and the wider Tampa community, the incident remains a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of workplace violence.

The company has made arrangements for affected employees to work remotely while it addresses the aftermath and provides support to colleagues.