TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Police have arrested 30-year-old Jerome Parker in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred in Copeland Park last month.
On August 9, 2024, officers responded to a shooting at 11001 N. 15th St. and found a young man in his early 20s with a gunshot wound. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries.
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According to a witness, the dispute that led to the shooting began over a seemingly trivial matter: a package of socks. The victim, who did not know Parker, had found the socks on the ground.
Parker accused him of stealing them, leading to a physical altercation. During the fight, Parker brandished a gun, and the victim responded by punching him. Parker then fired the weapon, fatally wounding the victim.
Through diligent investigative work, including DNA analysis and following up on leads, detectives were able to identify Parker as the suspect. He has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder with a firearm.
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“This was a completely senseless act of violence that took a young man’s life,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “I’m thankful that the diligent work of our detectives led to an arrest which, I hope, provides a small sense of closure for the loved ones of the victim.”
Parker is charged with Murder in the First-Degree Premeditated Firearm- Great Bodily Harm/Death.
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