A Central Florida teen was arrested for murder after a body was found in a vacant lot.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a homicide after the body was found in a vacant lot in Tampa.
The Tampa Police Department recently responded to the 1500 block of North 39th Street in Tampa and discovered a deceased victim, later identified as 37-year-old Andie Morrell.
The investigation led detectives to a residence in the 9400 block of Polak Drive in unincorporated Hillsborough County. Inside the home, investigators located blood evidence and determined the murder occurred at this location.
Through investigative efforts, detectives identified 17-year-old Justin Hawker as the suspect. He was arrested and charged with Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm – Great Bodily Harm/Death.
“It is awful to see a crime like this and to see someone so young resort to such violence,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I appreciate the strong partnership we have with the Tampa Police Department. We will continue to hold violent offenders accountable and protect the safety of our community.”
This case remains active and under investigation, according to local law enforcement.
