2 dead, 5 injured in separate shootings in Ocala

OCALA, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Authorities in Marion County are investigating two separate shooting scenes in Ocala, in which two people have died and five others have been injured.

The first occurred around 3 p.m. at Parkside Garden Apartments.  According to police, two people got into an argument and exchanged fire. Two were injured in the crossfire.

"A total of four people have been shot; the two involved in the altercation and two bystanders," said police spokesperson Meghan Shaya.

At least three people were transported to a hospital for treatment, but their conditions were not immediately known.  One of those the injured has died.

Authorities said a second shooting incident occurred in the same area of the city, at a residence on NW 21st Place, and just a few hours after the first shooting.  

"In the second shooting, three people were shot, and sadly, one did succumb to injuries and is now deceased," Shaya explained.

Detectives said it was too early in the investigation to determine what led to the shootings.  They will not say if the two incidents are connected.