Police: Boys, 12 and 19, shot by stepfather

BRADENTON (FOX 13) - A stepfather has admitted to shooting his two stepsons, 19 and 12 years old, according to Bradenton police. 

Investigators say the incident, which ended with the two boys being seriously injured, began with an argument between the older boy and his stepfather.

It started around 11:30 Thursday morning at a home on 6th Ave. E.

Police say Rufus Adams,19, of Bradenton, picked up a gun during an argument with his stepdad, Joshua Rapolla, 36, of Bradenton. Investigators say Rapolla then picked up a gun of his own. 

As the argument escalated, investigators say the stepfather fired at the 19-year-old. The 12-year-old was caught in the crossfire and was shot in his lower body. He is being treated at All Children's Hospital in St. Pete. 

The 19-year-old was shot in the head and upper body and is being treated at Blake Medical Center in Bradenton.

Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at 941-932-9300, Detective Fredy Ordonez at (941) 932-9327, or email crimetips@cityofbradenton.com.