Gunman in Citibank shooting was angry over court case, drove to Tampa from Orlando

In the quiet suburbs of Tampa, a routine workday shattered in seconds when a gunman opened fire at Citibank’s Sabal Center, leaving two dead—including himself—and five others injured. The chaos unfolded after a man driven by anger over a $2,500 debt threatened violence hours before the attack, revealing how personal grievances can escalate into tragedy when unchecked.

What Happened

Jacob Pearson, 35, from Orlando, drove more than two hours to Tampa, targeting the bank’s sprawling office complex. Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister confirmed Pearson’s motive: a dispute over a debt collection. Just hours prior, Pearson had called an attorney affiliated with Citibank, threatening violence with an AR-15 and a bulletproof vest, demanding the court case be canceled.

The attorney’s office contacted Citibank security, which deemed the threat credible and alerted Orlando police for a welfare check. When officers arrived at Pearson’s home, his wife reported he was gone, angry and headed out in his car. Despite no criminal record, Pearson’s actions turned deadly within hours.

The Shooting Unfolds

As deputies arrived at the Citibank campus, they heard gunfire. Pearson had crashed his car into a gate, exited with a rifle, and shot a woman attempting to escape. The victim, Leanne Selman, 41, was struck multiple times as Pearson returned to his car for a handgun and resumed firing. Witnesses described him as eerily calm amid the chaos.

Armed with 90 rounds of ammunition, Pearson moved through the office complex, shooting at least one more victim before being shot five times by a security guard. He died at Tampa General Hospital, marking a tragic end to a violent rampage that left five others injured and traumatized a community.

Community Reaction

The incident has shaken Tampa’s business community and raised questions about workplace safety and mental health. Citibank’s Tampa campus, home to thousands of employees, was evacuated during the crisis, with law enforcement conducting a meticulous search of the premises. The chaos was captured in radio traffic, describing officers escorting frightened employees from locked rooms and closets.

Citibank Vice President John Fraley issued a statement expressing concern and gratitude for the quick response of law enforcement and security personnel. Local residents and workers are now grappling with the trauma of witnessing such violence in their community, reinforcing the importance of community support and mental health resources.

Why It Matters

This tragedy underscores the devastating impact of unresolved personal grievances and mental health struggles. While Pearson’s case was rooted in a financial dispute, it highlights the broader societal need for accessible mental health services and conflict resolution. Families built on faith and steadfast commitment can serve as a buffer against such destructive outcomes, emphasizing the value of strong marriages and community ties.

As Tampa rebuilds its sense of security, local leaders are calling for increased security measures at major corporate campuses and better outreach to individuals showing signs of distress. The incident also prompts a reflection on how workplaces can foster environments that support mental well-being, preventing future tragedies.

What’s Next

Authorities continue to investigate Pearson’s motives and the circumstances leading up to the shooting. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is working with federal agencies to assess security protocols and prevent similar incidents. Community meetings and mental health awareness campaigns are expected to follow, aiming to strengthen local resilience.

For residents and employees affected, counseling services are being offered by local nonprofits and community health organizations. The city of Tampa remains committed to ensuring that workplaces are safe havens where families and communities can thrive without fear of violence. As the community mourns and seeks healing, the focus remains on fostering genuine faith, strong families, and a united front against violence.

Local Context and Broader Significance

The Tampa Bay area, known for its vibrant communities and thriving economy, has experienced a mix of growth and challenges in recent years. The region’s expansion has brought increased employment opportunities, but also raised concerns about infrastructure, mental health resources, and workplace safety. The Citibank Sabal Center, a key employment hub, symbolizes the economic vitality of the area, housing thousands of employees who commute daily from across Hillsborough County and neighboring counties.

In recent months, local officials have been vocal about the importance of mental health support, especially as the region recovers from the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic not only strained healthcare systems but also increased social isolation, which can exacerbate mental health issues. Community leaders have emphasized the need for accessible counseling, crisis intervention programs, and public awareness campaigns to address these issues before they escalate into violence.

The Tampa Police Department and Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office have also been working collaboratively to improve security protocols at major corporate sites, including regular drills and increased patrols. The incident at Citibank has prompted a reevaluation of security measures, with many companies considering additional screening and emergency response plans. The city’s leadership recognizes that ensuring safety in the workplace is a shared responsibility that requires ongoing investment and community engagement.

Profiles of Key People Involved

Jacob Pearson

Jacob Pearson’s background remains relatively obscure, with no criminal record or known history of violence. Friends and family describe him as a quiet man, deeply upset over financial difficulties that had been mounting over recent months. His wife, who was at home when police arrived, expressed shock at his actions, saying he had been increasingly anxious but never violent before. Pearson’s case highlights how mental health issues can sometimes remain hidden until a crisis erupts.

Leanne Selman

The woman who lost her life in the shooting, Leanne Selman, was a Tampa native and mother of two. She worked at Citibank for over a decade, known for her dedication and kindness. Her family has issued a statement mourning her loss and thanking first responders for their swift action. Her death has resonated deeply within the community, prompting calls for increased support for victims of workplace violence and mental health crises.

Community Healing and Moving Forward

In the aftermath of the tragedy, community organizations and faith groups have mobilized to offer support and counseling. The Tampa Bay area has a strong network of mental health providers, including NAMI Tampa Bay, which has already begun outreach efforts to help those affected cope with trauma.

Local schools and workplaces are also reviewing their safety protocols and mental health policies, aiming to prevent future incidents. The city’s leaders are advocating for a holistic approach that combines security, mental health support, and community engagement to build resilience.

Furthermore, residents are calling for ongoing dialogue about gun safety and mental health resources, emphasizing that preventing such tragedies requires a collective effort. The community’s response will be critical in shaping policies and fostering a culture of safety and compassion.

What Comes Next

The investigation into Pearson’s motives continues, with authorities examining his digital footprint, financial records, and communications leading up to the shooting. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and federal partners are also reviewing security protocols at the Citibank campus to identify improvements.

Local officials plan to hold community forums to discuss safety measures and mental health initiatives. These gatherings aim to foster transparency, gather community input, and strengthen partnerships between law enforcement, healthcare providers, and residents.

As Tampa heals from this traumatic event, the focus remains on fostering an environment where families, workers, and communities can feel secure. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues proactively and ensuring workplaces are safe spaces for all.