Second Suspect Charged With Murder In Seffner Woman's 2021 Death

SEFFNER, FL — The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office made a breakthrough in a 2021 homicide investigation with the arrest of Phillip Stapleton, 32.

Phillip Stapleton, 32, was arrested earlier this week in connection to a murder in Seffner in July, the second homicide authorities said he has been linked to.

On Saturday, June 12, 2021, around 6:30 a.m., deputies were dispatched for a report of a body on the side of the road. The case was ruled a homicide, and detectives continued to follow up on leads over the last two years.

Through meticulous investigative efforts, detectives determined Stapleton was a possible suspect in two active homicide investigations, according to the sheriff's office. Stapleton was taken into custody earlier this week for his involvement in another murder in Seffner on July 20.

Related: 2nd Arrest Made In Fatal Shooting Of Seffner Woman In Her Car

"Our dedicated detectives have displayed tireless determination in both of these investigations," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "This shameless killer thought he could get away with murder on multiple occasions. His cold-blooded crimes end now. While nothing can fully heal the damage he has caused, I pray these victims' loved ones find comfort in knowing Stapleton will now have to answer for his actions."

Stapleton was taken into custody without incident in Pasco County on Aug. 14.

While in jail, detectives connected him to the 2021 death in Seffner.

Stapleton's charges have been updated to include first-degree murder and tampering with evidence.