ORLANDO, Fla. – A fatal shooting Thursday evening prompted authorities to close a portion of West Colonial Drive as they investigated the crime and searched for suspects, according to the Orlando Police Department.
Police said the shooting happened around 5:30 p.m. in the 3700 block of West Colonial Drive.
The victim was taken to an area hospital, where she was pronounced dead, a news release said. She was identified Friday as Robin Jean Roundtree, 52.
Police said Roundtree was driving eastbound on Colonial Drive when her vehicle entered the median and crossed into westbound traffic, which resulted in a crash. When authorities responded to the crash, they realized Roundtree had been shot.
Danielle Gillette said she witnessed a crash and tried to render aid to Roundtree.
"We realized that it wasn't just an accident. She had got shot," Gillette said.
Gillette said that she was driving home when she saw a fast-moving Dodge sedan swerve into oncoming traffic.
"When we looked into the car, we thought it was just an accident, but it looked like she had gunshots and we were all trying to help her and get her out of the car and get her some help," Gillette said.
Gillette said she spoke to a 911 dispatcher while attempting to save the woman, holding her hand and praying with her until help arrived.
"We were trying to get her to respond. I was trying to rub her hand to get her to come through, but she wasn't responding, no," Gillette said. "First thing that came to mind was, does she have kids, who needs this woman out here and definitely trying to save her life."
The eastbound and westbound lanes of Colonial Drive between John Young Parkway and Mercy Drive were closed for several hours. The roadway has since reopened.
Police said suspects are being sought in the case. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477).
