TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A man was fatally shot outside a hotel in central Tallahassee on Friday night, prompting an ongoing investigation by the police. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. near the Motel 6-Downtown on Apalachee Parkway, where the victim was discovered dead inside a vehicle. Several residents who live in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots.

Despite efforts to save the victim’s life, he succumbed to his injuries, according to a police spokesperson. Authorities are actively searching for leads and have labeled the case as “open and active.” Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed the incident but did not speak with an officer at the scene to contact them at 850-891-4200. Tips can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 850-574-TIPS.

The shooting marks another incidence of gun violence in Tallahassee, continuing a troubling trend since late August. As local law enforcement agencies work to address the surge in shootings, the city and county authorities face the challenge of curbing the violence.

In 2023 alone, Tallahassee has witnessed a staggering number of shootings, resulting in 21 deaths and at least 68 injuries from 81 serious incidents. These statistics are based on an analysis of gun violence conducted by the Tallahassee Democrat.

The investigation into the recent shooting remains ongoing, and further details about the incident have not been released.