Orlando, Fla. – A Sanford man has been found guilty of first-degree murder in connection with the fatal ambush shooting of 18-year-old Isaiah Diaz in late 2022. The Seminole County jury delivered its verdict on Tuesday, convicting 23-year-old Thallas Inman of several charges, including two counts of attempted murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The incident occurred on November 20, when Inman and two accomplices allegedly opened fire on a parked Kia Optima outside the Hatteras Sound Apartments, discharging over 50 rounds. Diaz, who was inside the vehicle with two friends, suffered multiple gunshot wounds and later died from his injuries. One passenger sustained serious injuries and required hospitalization, while another escaped with minor wounds.
Authorities initially sought the public’s assistance by releasing surveillance footage that captured the gunmen in action. Inman’s mother, Tammy Spivey, played a pivotal role in identifying her son, pointing out specific details regarding his clothing and appearance. However, her refusal to testify during the trial led to intervention from Circuit Judge Michael Rudisill, who sentenced her to nearly six months in jail for contempt of court.
With a prior conviction for attempted murder in Volusia County, Inman’s legal troubles have compounded. He had been released from state prison in December 2021 after serving six years. Furthermore, he faces additional charges related to a drive-by shooting earlier in 2023, which resulted in the death of 31-year-old Princess Tolliver and injuries to five others.
Inman is now subject to a mandatory life sentence, with the formal sentencing hearing scheduled for October 7. Investigators continue to pursue his accomplices from the November incident, but no arrests have been made to date.
The case highlights the ongoing issues of gun violence and the impact of criminal behavior on communities. Local officials have repeatedly called for action to address these incidents as society grapples with rising concerns over public safety.