Attacked taxi driver: 'I'm just glad to be alive'

Taxi driver shot 5 times tells story for first time; police still without leads

PALM BAY, Fla. – By sharing his story for the first time, Palm Bay taxi driver Stephen Davis hopes to help police get results and track down his shooter.

The unknown gunman shot Davis five times in the early hours of April 12 in the parking lot of Walgreens at the intersection of Babcock Street and Port Malabar Boulevard, according to police.

Davis managed to drive off and call for help.

"A gentleman came up, approached the car, (but) didn't say anything. I heard five shots," said Davis, during an interview with News 6 on Monday. "It happened so fast. Once I was in the ambulance, I just passed out."

Six months later, investigators say they have no suspects or leads.

Meanwhile, Davis is getting back on his feet to support his young daughters.

He said he's back to work at the cab company, but only part-time and in the office, not on the streets.

When News 6 asked Davis if he's planning to return to driving cabs, he replied, "That's still in the air. A lot of my close relatives and associate are a little against it. I am [afraid]. It put a different perspective on things."

Which, on a positive note, allows Davis to share his story with a newfound appreciation for his life.

"I'm just glad to be alive," said Davis. "Live it to the fullest. You never know when your last day might be."

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Palm Bay Police or CRIMELINE at 800-423-TIPS (8477).

Davis is asking for help with medical bills. If you'd like to donate, visit his GoFundMe account.


About the Author:

James joined News 6 in March 2016 as the Brevard County Reporter. His arrival was the realization of a three-year effort to return to the state where his career began. James is from Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from Penn State in 2009 with a degree in Broadcast Journalism.

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