TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Police Department said they've arrested a man in connection to a murder of someone he knew "from working post-hurricane cleanup."
The shooting happened Thursday off of Century Park Drive, the agency said. When law enforcement arrived on scene, they found a 32-year-old man dead from gunshot wounds and determined that the victim didn't have a weapon on him at the time.
According to the agency, witnesses had reported hearing gunshots and seeing 30-year-old Derrick Smith shoot the man before eventually kicking him and leaving the scene.
During their investigation, police determined there was no evidence of a fight or altercation leading up to the incident. Officials said that the victim didn't get any closer than about three feet before the gunshots were heard.
However, the agency said detectives found a gun from Smith's car, which was impounded as evidence.
Authorities are still working to figure out what exactly the motive was for the shooting and are continuing to investigate. As of right now, witness statements and evidence "contradict Smith's original claim of self-defense," according to TPD.
Smith is currently being held in Orient Road Jail where he faces murder charges, officials said.
"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 in a statement. "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."
