TAMPA, Fla — Tampa police have identified the man shot and killed in Ybor City on Friday evening as 41-year-old Dedrick Sykes, a well-known local DJ who performed under the name DJ ShyGuy.
The shooting occurred around 7 p.m. near E 5th Avenue and N 22nd Street, according to the Tampa Police Department. Officers responding to the scene found Sykes suffering from a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
On Sunday, TPD publicly confirmed Sykes as the victim, prompting an outpouring of grief from the local community and the nightlife scene where he was widely known and loved.
7th + Grove, a popular restaurant and lounge in Ybor where Sykes had DJ’d for more than six years, released a heartfelt statement honoring him. They thanked him for the joy he brought to their space, describing him as someone who “shared the gift of joy” with everyone who walked through their doors.
Police described the incident as a “roadway dispute.” The shooter, whose identity has not been released, is claiming self-defense and has been cooperating fully with investigators, TPD said. Officers added that the individual showed no signs of impairment during their initial assessment.
No further details about what led to the dispute or the moments before the shooting have been released. The investigation remains active as police continue gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Sykes leaves behind a legacy in Tampa’s music and nightlife community, where he was known for his energy, kindness, and ability to bring people together through music.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Tampa police.
