Staff report
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In a tense incident at the MLK Jr. Multipurpose Center, 18-year-old Antwon Kenshae Towns found himself in custody after allegedly brandishing a firearm during a confrontation between two groups. The events unfolded on July 7 around 3:51 p.m., prompting a swift response from the Gainesville Police Department.
According to accounts from those at the scene, as the victim and her family approached the park located at 1100 NE 14th Street, Towns allegedly approached them accompanied by several others. Anticipating trouble, the victim began filming the situation.
During the encounter, Towns reportedly lifted his shirt, revealing a black firearm tucked into his waistband. Witnesses claim that he issued threats, instilling a significant sense of fear in the victim. Subsequently, Towns was seen moving behind the MLK Center before reappearing without the weapon.
A K-9 team from the Gainesville Police Department then conducted a search of the area behind the building. Their efforts led to the discovery of two firearms: a black Taurus G2C and a Glock 48 9mm. The incident underscores the ongoing concerns about gun violence and safety in community spaces.
The victim identified Towns and said she was familiar with him due to an ongoing dispute between their families.
Post Miranda, Towns reportedly denied possessing a firearm and denied making any threats toward the victim. He said the victim and an unidentified male approached his group while they were sitting in a vehicle and said something in their direction, but he did not tell the officer what was said.
Towns, who told Court Services he is an Eastside High School student, has been charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and unlawful concealed carry of a firearm. He has juvenile convictions between 2023 and 2026 that include a felony conviction for robbery. Judge Meshon Rawls set bail at $100,000.
Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.