State Attorney Ed Brodsky announced today that Vincent A Steele was convicted after jury trial of one count of Attempted Murder In The Second Degree With Firearm; two counts of Attempted Manslaughter with a Firearm, two counts of Attempted Manslaughter of an Unborn Child by injury to the Mother with a Firearm, and one count of Aggravated Assault With A Deadly Weapon.  The crimes were committed on 05/05/2024 and investigated by Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.  The trial was held at the Manatee County Courthouse on August 3rd through 6th. 

The crimes carry a maximum possible sentence of 101 years. 

The charge of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm carries a minimum mandatory sentence of 20 years in prison. 

Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

These crimes are the result of a traffic accident back in 2024.  After the crash, the defendant, irate and upset about the crash, approached the victim’s vehicle and opened fire, striking a pregnant woman sitting in the passenger seat.  All parties in the victim’s vehicle survived the shooting.

The lead prosecutor in the case, Assistant State Attorney Tyler Egbert commented,

“This case shows how a simple traffic accident can escalate into a tragic situation in mere moments when individuals decide to take matters into their own hands.  The evidence presented at trial showed there was no justification for the actions of the defendant, and the jury’s verdict emphasizes that actions have consequences.  We appreciate the hard work over the course of this trial undertaken by the members of the jury.  Their time, attention, and consideration in this matter ensure that justice is upheld”

If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact Assistant State Attorney Tyler Egbert in the Manatee County office at 941-747-3077.