Tampa Police Work To Apprehend Suspect in Fatal Shooting of 16-year-old Girl

TAMPA, FL (February 19, 2026) - - Tampa Police Detectives are actively working to find justice for 16-year-old Miracle Cromwell, who was tragically killed in late January. Since the night of the incident, investigators have been working tirelessly to apprehend 17-year-old Brandon Earle Brown, Jr. (black male, 04/18/2008), who has an active warrant for charges including manslaughter.

"Miracle was a young woman with her entire life ahead of her and her family deserves more than just answers, they deserve the closure that comes with justice,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Our detectives have not stopped since the moment they arrived on scene, and we will not rest until the individual responsible is held accountable."

On January 22, 2026, at approximately 2:07 am, Tampa Police Officers responded to a residence in the 8200 block of N. 12th St. They arrived within two minutes to find Miracle in a bedroom with a fatal gunshot wound to her upper body. The Tampa Police Victims Advocate has been working closely with the family, providing support and assistance during this difficult time.

The investigation revealed that Brown and several acquaintances, including Miracle, were on a FaceTime call with another acquaintance. During this time, Brown was allegedly waving around a tan-colored handgun. After a brief verbal exchange, a single shot was fired, and Miracle was killed. Brown fled the scene as officers arrived. Investigators later recovered the firearm, magazine, and live ammunition along his flight path.

Detectives have been working tirelessly to locate Brown but believe he is actively evading arrest. Brown is 5’7”, approximately 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He is known to frequent the Sulphur Springs area.

Anyone with information regarding Brandon Brown’s current location is asked to call Tampa Police at 813.231.6130 and refer to report #26-41792.

Crimestoppers of Tampa Bay is now offering a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to the arrest of Brown. To remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward, contact Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay by calling 800.873.TIPS; dialing **TIPS from a cellphone, or using the Florida Crime Stoppers mobile app and selecting “Tampa.”