Fatal Shooting Suspect Arrested In Tampa: Police

TAMPA, FL — The suspect in a fatal shooting in Tampa is under arrest, authorities said.

A 32-year-old man was found shot to death Thursday afternoon in the 1000 block of Century Park Drive, according to a Tampa Police Department news release.

Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing the suspect, Derrick Smith, 30, shoot the victim multiple times. He then reportedly kicked the victim before leaving the scene.

There was no report or evidence of “an escalating altercation” between the two ahead of the shooting, police said. Evidence also shows that the victim never got closer than three feet away from Smith before shots were fired.

Smith and the victim knew each other from working post-hurricane cleanup, the department said.

The motive for the shooting is under investigation, though witness statements and evidence contradicts Smith’s claim of self-defense.

"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," Chief Lee Bercaw said. "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."

Detectives recovered the gun from Smith's vehicle, which was impounded as evidence.

Smith, who was arrested and charged with murder, is currently being held at the Orient Road Jail.