TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Police have arrested a suspect in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday afternoon on Century Park Drive.
30-year-old Derrick Smith was taken into custody and charged with murder following an investigation into the death of a 32-year-old man.
Officers responded to the scene of the shooting around 3:45 p.m. on November 21st and found the victim deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. Witnesses reported seeing Smith shoot the victim multiple times and then kick him before fleeing the scene.
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“This senseless act has taken the life of a young man, and our thoughts are with his loved ones as they navigate this difficult time,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Our detectives worked swiftly and thoroughly to positively identify and arrest the suspect, and we remain committed to ensuring that he is held accountable for his actions.”
Evidence collected at the scene contradicted Smith’s claim of self-defense. The victim was reportedly unarmed and had not engaged in any altercation with Smith prior to the shooting.
Smith and the victim were acquaintances who had worked together on post-hurricane cleanup efforts. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
The firearm used in the shooting was recovered from Smith’s vehicle, which was impounded as evidence. Smith is currently being held at the Orient Road Jail.
Previous Report: Tampa Police are investigating a homicide that occurred Thursday afternoon in the 1000 block of Century Park Drive.
Officers responded to reports of a shooting around 3:45 p.m. and found an adult male victim with gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
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The suspected shooter, also an adult male, is in custody. Preliminary investigations suggest that the victim and the suspect knew each other.
Detectives are currently interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the Tampa Police Department.
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