TAMPA, FL -- Innocent and minding their own business – the victims did not know each other and come from different backgrounds. But, are now tied together in this senseless string of murders.
A bus stop is where it all started. It’s off of North 15th Street and Frierson. Benjamin Mitchell was shot and killed on October 9. His parents sent him down here to grow up in a safe environment. He aspired to be a musician.
Less than 10 blocks away and four days later, the next victim, Monica Hoffa, is found dead. Police believe the 32-year-old could’ve been killed a day or two earlier. Her family told us they’re grateful for first responders and the work they’re putting in to solve her murder.
“There’s two other families that are suffering the same thing that we’re suffering with right now. Somebody in that area knows what happened,” said Kenny Hoffa, Monica’s father.
Remembering 4 lives lost in Seminole Heights killings
Moving back to North 15th Street. Anthony Naiboa was walking near Wilder Avenue when he was gunned down October 19. He became the third victim connected to the Seminole heights murders. The 20-year-old had autism and recently graduated high school. He took the wrong bus, that’s how he ended up in Seminole Heights.
“He was right here. They just kill him just for nothing,” said Casimir Naiboa, Anthony’s father.
“Justice has to prevail,” said Maria Rodriguez, Anthony’s stepmother.
Lastly, on Nov. 14, TPD believes a fourth person killed nearby could’ve been at the hands of the same gunman. Ronald Felton was crossing the street at Nebraska near McBerry when police say he was murdered. Friends and relatives say he was a kind and helpful man.
“All he was doing was helping the homeless. He wasn’t hurting nobody, he wasn’t doing anything to nobody,” said Tina Felton, Ronald’s sister.
His sister did not hold back the tears, expressing the frustration of many in Seminole Heights.
On Nov. 28, a man was arrested for their murders.
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