NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsSeptember 2, 2026Hillsborough
State Attorney declines to prosecute Venice man in fatal shooting
The State Attorney’s Office has cleared Aaron Bean of criminal charges in the July 1 fatal shooting of Terry Lee Murphy, determining the act was justified under self-defense laws. Investigators concluded that Bean acted to prevent imminent harm after Murphy forced entry into his home and threatened his family.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
This decision confirms that no criminal charges will be filed against the resident involved in the shooting, closing the local police investigation into the incident.
Key Facts
- The State Attorney’s Office will not prosecute Aaron Bean for the July 1 shooting.
- Investigators determined the shooting was justified under self-defense laws.
- The incident occurred at an apartment on Vistera Boulevard in Venice.
- Terry Lee Murphy, 32, forced entry into the apartment while threatening the resident and his family.
- Murphy repeatedly shoved and struck Bean while keeping one hand behind his back to simulate being armed.
- Bean fired three shots at Murphy during the confrontation.
- Murphy fled the scene and later died from his injuries.
- Bean called 911 immediately after the shooting.
- Bean provided security camera footage and cooperated with the investigation.
- The Venice Police Department conducted the investigation before submitting findings to the State Attorney.
Who's Mentioned
personAaron Bean“The Venice resident who shot the intruder.”organizationState Attorney’s Office“The office responsible for determining whether to file criminal charges.”personEric Hill“Venice Police Captain who commented on the investigation.”organizationVenice Police Department“The local law enforcement agency that investigated the shooting.”personTerry Lee Murphy“The 32-year-old individual who died following the incident.”