Tampa Police responded to a domestic-related assault in the 4000 block of West Hillsborough Avenue at approximately 2:20 a.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024. Witnesses provided a detailed description of the suspect. A community member attempted to intervene before officers arrived.
The first officer on the scene located the suspect, who refused commands and tried to re-enter the vehicle where the female victim was. The suspect then attempted to flee on foot, ignoring lawful commands to stop. The officer deployed a taser, and the suspect was struck by a vehicle traveling eastbound on Hillsborough Avenue. The vehicle did not stop and continued driving.
The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. This incident is classified as an in-custody death because the officer was attempting to make an arrest when the suspect was hit by the car.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) will lead the investigation into the in-custody death, in accordance with a mutual aid agreement. The Tampa Police Department Traffic Homicide Unit is working to identify and locate the vehicle that struck the suspect and fled.
An internal investigation will be conducted to ensure the officer adhered to all department policies and procedures. The Victim’s Advocate will assist the female victim, whose injuries are non-life-threatening.
Eastbound traffic on Hillsborough Avenue is closed between Lois Avenue and N. Dale Mabry Highway to allow the investigation.
This remains an active investigation, and updates will be provided as they become available.