Tampa Teen Sentenced to 55 Years for Murder
A judge handed down the prison sentence to 17-year-old Jahmir Moore for the 2024 killing of 14-year-old Jevario Buie.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Teens

A Tampa judge sentenced 17-year-old Jahmir Moore to 55 years in prison for the first-degree murder of 14-year-old Jevario Buie. Moore was 15 at the time of the incident.
Why it matters
The sentencing marks the conclusion of a high-profile case involving two teenagers that deeply affected the local Tampa community. Prosecutors secured the conviction by using surveillance footage and social media evidence.
Jahmir Moore received a 55-year prison sentence for a crime committed when he was 15 years old. The victim, Jevario Buie, was 14 years old at the time of his death.
The players
Jahmir Moore
He is the defendant who was 15 years old at the time of the murder and was later sentenced to 55 years in prison at age 17.
Jevario Buie
He was the 14-year-old victim whose life was taken near railroad tracks in Tampa.
The details
Surveillance video captured Moore with the victim prior to the shooting near railroad tracks located between Busch Boulevard and Rome Avenue. Additionally, social media messages sent by Moore contained specific details regarding the death that had not been released to the public.
Timeline
In April 2024, police discovered the body of the victim following reports of gunfire.
Jahmir Moore was arrested in December 2024 following an escape from a Hillsborough County juvenile detention center.
On October 16, 2026, Jahmir Moore was sentenced to 55 years in prison.
Culture Shift
This case highlights the ongoing societal debate regarding the sentencing of juvenile offenders and the balance between accountability and youth rehabilitation. The court's decision reflects a broader trend of how local judicial systems manage violent crimes involving minors.
The conclusion of this case offers a measure of finality for the local neighborhood where the incident took place. Residents can expect the legal process to be fully resolved following this sentencing announcement.
The takeaway
This case serves as a stark reminder of the long-term consequences of youth violence. Community members are encouraged to utilize local support services aimed at preventing juvenile delinquency and providing mentorship for at-risk youth.
Further reading
Learn more about local youth-related issues on our Teens page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WFLA.










