Lehigh Acres, FL – In the early hours of Monday morning, tragedy struck the quiet community of Lehigh Acres when a 17-year-old boy was seriously injured in a shooting on Harold Avenue South. The incident, which occurred at approximately 2:16 a.m., has left residents shaken and searching for answers, while the Lee County Sheriff’s Office has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crime.

According to initial reports and emergency radio communications, law enforcement and emergency medical services responded swiftly to the scene after multiple 911 calls were placed reporting gunshots in the area. When deputies arrived, they found the teenage victim suffering from a gunshot wound. He was immediately transported to a local hospital in critical condition, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Authorities have not released the identity of the victim, citing his age and the ongoing nature of the investigation. At this time, no suspects have been publicly identified, and it remains unclear whether the shooting was targeted or random. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.

“We are doing everything possible to gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and bring those responsible to justice,” a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office said. “This kind of violence has no place in our community, and we need the public’s help to ensure it does not happen again.”

The area surrounding Harold Avenue South has been cordoned off while investigators comb the scene for shell casings, surveillance footage, and other forensic evidence. Neighbors in the typically peaceful neighborhood described waking up to the sound of sirens and expressed concern about the increase in violent incidents.

“I’ve lived here for 15 years and never thought something like this would happen so close to home,” said one local resident, who asked not to be named. “We’re praying for the boy and hoping the police find whoever did this.”

As the investigation unfolds, community leaders and local organizations are calling for increased safety measures and greater support for youth outreach initiatives to prevent further tragedies. In the meantime, the priority remains with the victim’s recovery and ensuring that justice is served.

Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477).

This incident is a sobering reminder of the fragility of peace in even the most seemingly quiet neighborhoods — and a call for collective action to protect the future of the community’s youth.