A deadly shooting at Citibank’s corporate campus in Tampa, Florida, on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, left a female employee dead and the suspected gunman killed after an armed security officer intervened to stop the attack.
Authorities identified the victim as 41-year-old Leanne Selman, a Citibank employee who had worked for the company for nine years. The suspect was identified as 35-year-old Jacob Pearson, who allegedly travelled from Orlando to the company’s premises following a dispute over outstanding credit card debt.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect drove through a secured entrance and opened fire on employees in an outdoor courtyard. After his rifle reportedly malfunctioned, he returned to his vehicle, retrieved a handgun and continued the attack.
The situation came to an end when an armed security officer, identified as 38-year-old John Fraley, confronted the gunman near the cafeteria. Fraley exchanged gunfire with the suspect, shooting him multiple times. The suspect was taken to hospital, where he later died. Selman was pronounced dead at the scene.
Alleged financial dispute behind attack
Investigators revealed that the shooting may have been linked to an outstanding Citibank credit card debt of approximately $2,556.40. Pearson had reportedly become angry after receiving a court summons relating to the debt.
Authorities further disclosed that he allegedly contacted a law firm on the morning of the shooting and threatened to travel to the company’s offices with an AR-15 rifle and a bulletproof vest if the legal proceedings were not cancelled.
The threat was reported to law enforcement, and officers attempted to locate him before the shooting occurred. Investigators believe Selman had no known personal connection to the suspect.
Hundreds of employees evacuated
More than 3,200 people were reportedly on the corporate campus when the shooting unfolded. The incident triggered a major emergency response involving hundreds of law enforcement personnel, including SWAT teams.
Four additional people were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening medical concerns and injuries. Approximately 300 employees also sought temporary shelter at a nearby hotel while authorities secured the area.
Citigroup expressed condolences to Selman’s family, friends and colleagues, while praising its security personnel for their response. The company also offered support to employees affected by the traumatic incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
The tragedy has renewed concerns about workplace safety and the dangers of threats escalating into violence, leaving a community mourning an employee who lost her life while simply going to work.
Main image: ABC News
