A Fateful Encounter on East Adalee Street

In the early hours of August 22, 2017, the quiet of Tampa's North Tampa Heights neighborhood was shattered by a violent confrontation. At approximately 12:40 a.m., 33-year-old Curtis O. Cunningham Jr. was preparing to enter a vehicle on the 100 block of East Adalee Street. As he and his friends gathered, they were approached by three unknown black males, estimated to be between 12 and 16 years old, standing about 5'04" to 5'06" with thin builds. The encounter quickly escalated into a physical altercation, culminating in one of the assailants drawing a firearm and fatally shooting Cunningham. The suspects fled north on Adalee Street, disappearing into the night.

A Life Cut Short

Born on July 28, 1984, in Galesburg, Illinois, Curtis O'Bryant Cunningham Jr. was a beloved son to Curtis O. and Sheila Miller Cunningham. He spent his early years in Galesburg before relocating to Tampa, Florida. Described by those who knew him as a "REAL, Loving, Caring, STR8 G," Curtis was known for his genuine nature and unwavering dedication to family and friends. His untimely death left a void in the hearts of many, as evidenced by the numerous tributes and candles lit in his memory. ...Read More