Gainesville Police Department holds press conference addressing recent shootings

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Gainesville Police Chief Nelson Moya addressed a recent uptick in gun-related violence across the city during a press conference Tuesday morning.

According to Moya, Gainesville has recorded 11 homicides resulting in 12 victims so far in 2026.

That compares to five homicides in 2025, eight in 2024, 14 in 2023, and 10 in 2022.

Moya also expressed concern about the tactics being used in recent shootings, including a series of incidents on Nov. 1.

“The devaluation of life that some of our shooters are displaying is beyond comprehension,” Moya said.

Around 4 a.m., two people were killed in a shooting in the 1000 block of West University Avenue, an area Moya described as a hotspot for violence.

The shooting was captured on video, which Moya said showed police officers nearby with their emergency lights flashing.

“In a matter of an instant, the choices made despite us being there, two people were going to be gunned down, Chief Moya said. ” They were gunned down in cold blood.”

Less than two hours later, another shooting occurred nearby, which police believe was retaliation for the initial incident.

A third shooting followed near the second scene, which investigators also believe was retaliatory.

According to Moya, many of the recent shootings stem from personal disputes or “beefs” between people.

The chief emphasized the importance of parental involvement in preventing violence, particularly among young people.

“We need close oversight over our youth,” Moya said.

He encouraged parents to watch their children’s activities and who they spend time with.

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