Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
Patrol Operations Bureau
Investigative Operations Bureau
-Homicide & Robbery Unit

Forensic Sciences Division

Kevin Bishop (Victim - Deceased)
DOB: 7/16/1974
Address: 8198 49^th Avenue North, St. Petersburg

William Tompkins (Witness - Uninjured)
DOB: 3/17/1967
Address: 8198 49th Avenue North, St. Petersburg

PINELLAS COUNTY – Detectives assigned to the Homicide & Robbery Unit are investigating an accidental shooting in Unincorporated St. Petersburg.

On July 21, 2024, at approximately 4:57 p.m., deputies responded to 8198 49^th Avenue North after reports of a man shot. When deputies arrived on scene, they located 50-year-old Kevin Bishop lying on the floor inside the residence with one gunshot wound to the chest. Bishop’s roommate, 57-year-old William Tompkins, was also on scene. Detectives say Bishop and Tompkins were consuming alcohol while Bishop showed Tompkins multiple firearms that he owns. Bishop told Tompkins that all of the firearms were unloaded.

Throughout the investigation, detectives learned that Tompkins and Bishop both pointed firearms at themselves and each other, pulling the triggers; however, they did not fire. According to detectives, Bishop took a Glock 21 from Tompkins and as Tompkins’ fingers released from the firearm, Bishop grabbed it and was accidentally shot in the chest.

Tompkins exited the residence and called 911. Bishop was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. Next of Kin was notified.

The investigation continues.