Seminole County, FL – In a gripping conclusion to a six-day trial, Thallas J. Inman Jr., a Sanford resident, was found guilty of first-degree premeditated murder for the senseless 2022 ambush shooting that claimed the life of 18-year-old Isaiah Diaz. The devastating attack also injured two others, sparking outrage and grief throughout the community.
Inman’s calculated gunfire, which involved a volley of over 50 shots, was unleashed on a parked vehicle outside the Hatteras Sound Apartments in Seminole County on November 20, 2022. Prosecutors revealed details of the chilling assault, highlighting the level of planning behind the act.
A Cold and Calculated Ambush
The attack was described by Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith as a “cold and calculated assault” that could have easily resulted in more fatalities. The victim, Isaiah Diaz, was inside a red Kia Optima when Inman Jr. and two accomplices opened fire using rifles.
- More than 53 shots were fired into the vehicle.
- Isaiah Diaz suffered massive wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
- Two passengers survived, one sustaining gunshot injuries and the other minor injuries.
Ring camera footage captured armed suspects walking through the apartment parking lot moments before the attack. The video shows them approaching the Kia shortly before the shooting began, depicting a premeditated assault as per ClickOrlando.
The vehicle sustained significant damage including a shattered windshield and multiple bullet holes. The medical examiner testified that fragments of metal and glass acted as deadly projectiles during the shooting.
“The fact that anyone in that vehicle survived is miraculous,” remarked Chief Smith, emphasizing the brutality and precision of the attack.
Inman Jr.’s Criminal Background and Trial Developments
This tragic event occurred less than a year after Inman Jr. was released from prison, underscoring ongoing concerns about recidivism and gun violence in the area. His involvement was initially acknowledged by his mother, who identified him to police but later refused to testify in court, resulting in her contempt of court charge and a 179-day jail sentence.
Alongside first-degree murder, Inman Jr. was convicted of:
- Attempted first-degree murder
- Shooting into a building or vehicle
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
He faces a potential life sentence at his upcoming October 7 sentencing hearing.
Context of Rising Violent Incidents in Seminole County
Inman Jr. is also connected to a high-profile 2023 drive-by shooting tied to a feud between music stars Kodak Black and Jackboy. He is one of 12 individuals indicted in connection with that case, which involved an ambush aimed at musician Jackboy and led to the death of 31-year-old Princess Tolliver and injuries to five other women.
Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma detailed how the shots were fired from one vehicle targeting a van carrying Jackboy’s entourage, highlighting a disturbing trend of violent disputes fueled by fame and rivalry.
What This Means for the Community
This conviction serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing gun violence challenges faced by communities in Seminole County and beyond. Law enforcement officials continue to prioritize efforts to combat violent crime and ensure public safety.
- Community leaders emphasize the need for preventive programs targeting at-risk youth.
- Police advocates are calling for increased resources to tackle illegal firearm possession.
- Court actions reflect a firm stance against violent offenses, exemplified by the life sentence sought for Inman Jr.
“Justice for Isaiah Diaz is a step forward, but our fight against senseless violence continues,” said a local advocate.
What do you think about this verdict and its impact on public safety in Sanford? Have you or someone you know been affected by gun violence in the area? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
