Victim Dead, Suspect Arrested On 1st Degree Murder: Police

LAKELAND, FL — A suspect accused of killing a 36-year-old man in Lakeland on Monday has been arrested, a police news release said.

A witness told authorities that prior to the shooting that took place inside a home in the 1500 block of Fairbanks Street that the suspect, Deandrae Gray, and the victim got into an argument about money and unpaid bills. The witness left the house shortly before the shooting occurred, investigators said. Gunshots were heard by the witness as they walked toward the front yard. When the witness ran back inside, they saw the victim on the floor with gunshot wounds, according to detectives.

The victim died at the hospital, authorities said.

Police said a semi-automatic handgun was at the location of the shooting.

Deandrae Leon Gary faces charges of first degree murder.

Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact Detective Ted Sealey at 863.834.5991 or Edward.Sealey@Lakelandgov.net.

The name of the victim is being withheld in accordance with Marsy’s Law.

Original Patch Story:

A man has serious injuries after he was shot early Tuesday morning in Lakeland, a police news release said.

Lakeland police said the shooting took place near the 1500 block of Fairbanks Street before 6:30 a.m. Detectives do have a suspect in custody. The victim was taken to Lakeland Regional Hospital.

This is a developing story. Patch will keep you updated.