TAMPA, Fla. — Last year, there were 197 guns stolen out of unlocked cars in Tampa.

Tampa Police officials said that’s almost 200 guns that go directly into the street and could potentially be used in shootings like the one near Armature Works Tuesday and in Ybor City last fall.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw released a video Wednesday of the department’s concern of gun violence in the city among young people.

Bercaw says it’s an act of transparency so people can see the challenges law enforcement had during the Ybor shooting. He also made a call for the public’s help in curbing teen gun violence.  

He said there is a growing number of kids getting access to firearms, through vehicle thefts, adults not locking them up or simply just not keeping track of them.

Bercaw is asking parents, educators, social workers and others to be more vigilant with youth violence and especially their access to firearms.

“These partnerships and collaborative solutions can’t only be discussed during times of tragedy,” Bercaw said. “Ensuring a strong future for the department and a safer community for those we serve are goals I take pride in both personally and professionally.

We will make Tampa safer together.”

Police are continuing to search for those responsible for the most recent shooting near Armature Works. One 17-year-old is in custody, and police believe there is another suspect.

Three people were injured in that shooting that involved teens between the ages of 13 and 17.