TAMPA, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has made an arrest in connection with the death of 48-year-old Dawn Morrison, whose body was found near a Church’s Chicken restaurant in June 2024.
On June 18, 2024, deputies responded to a call at the Church’s Chicken located at 2219 East Fletcher Avenue in Tampa. A citizen had discovered Morrison’s body partially covered in mulch near the restaurant’s drive-thru. An autopsy revealed that Morrison had sustained upper body trauma, and her death was ruled a homicide.
READ: Florida Felon Pleads Guilty To Firearms Possession, Faces Minimum 15 Years
Homicide detectives conducted an extensive investigation, which included interviewing Morrison’s friends, collecting DNA evidence, and reviewing surveillance footage. Through these efforts, detectives identified 54-year-old Michael Canty as a suspect.
At the time of his identification, Canty was already in custody at the Falkenburg Road Jail on an unrelated charge. On February 28, 2025, he was charged with Second Degree Murder and Tampering with Physical Evidence in connection with Morrison’s death.
READ: Wanted Lake Wales Man Arrested After Fleeing Polk County Deputies
“Our detectives worked tirelessly to bring justice for Dawn Morrison,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Their dedication and relentless investigative efforts led to this arrest, ensuring that the individual responsible faces the consequences of their actions.”
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.