July 8, 2025 – Port Charlotte, FL
Three days after the investigation began, detectives have arrested and charged a second suspect in the Hernando Avenue shooting.
On July 5th in the 22000 block of Hernando Avenue in Port Charlotte a dispute between two teenagers led to Michael Balunas being charged with 2nd degree murder for the death of Anthony Romero. A second teenager, 18-year-old Octavion Washington, has been charged as a principle in the first degree for the homicide. Detectives have determined that Washington was directly involved in the shooting that claimed the life of 17-year-old Anthony Romero. Octavion Washington was arrested and taken to the Charlotte County Jail earlier this afternoon.
“This is a perfect example of why I urge parents to have conversations with their children and know who their friends are. Hanging around the wrong crowd can lead to them being involved in horrible situations like this. As one family continues to grieve and mourn the senseless loss of their teenage son, a 3rd family’s life is now forever changed. I would like to thank my Major Crimes Unit for continuing to leave no stone unturned and maintaining the integrity of the investigation by ensuring the people involved are charged accordingly.”
– Sheriff Bill Prummell
While the investigation remains active and ongoing, detectives plan to clear the scene later this evening.