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Subject Arrested in Connection to Playhouse Gentleman's Club Homicide

For Immediate Release : Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Release Number: 23-146

Date

Location

Subject Arrested in Connection to Playhouse Gentleman's Club Homicide

September 7, 2023. 

Detectives have identified and arrested one of the subjects connected to a homicide at the Playhouse Gentleman’s Club.

On Thursday, September 7, 2023, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested Alfonso Howard, 23. He was booked into Orient Road Jail on Felon in Possession of a Firearm charges. He has not been charged with murder in this case.

"The dedication and relentless pursuit of justice displayed by our detectives in tracking down those involved in this heinous homicide is nothing short of remarkable,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Their commitment to solving this case serves as an example of the courage and diligence that define the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.”

This is an active investigation; any new information will come from the Public Affairs Office.

                                                                                                                                                                      

September 4, 2023. 

Update 7:35 a.m.
:

Detectives are investigating a homicide at the Playhouse Gentleman's Club.

On Monday, September 4, 2023, at 3:40 a.m., the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a shooting in the parking lot of the club.

When deputies arrived, they found a 33-year-old male with upper body trauma. The victim was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

No witnesses were found at the crime scene as they fled when shots were fired. Investigators are working with local businesses to gather surveillance footage that could help with solving this case.

"It's truly disheartening to see a holiday weekend, meant for fun and celebration with family and friends, overshadowed by acts of violence," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our detectives are tirelessly working to piece together the puzzle surrounding this shooting, and we urge anyone with information to come forward."

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office encourages anyone with information about this incident to call 813-247-8200. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-TIPS.

This is an active investigation; any new information will come from the Public Affairs Office.

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September 4, 2023.

5:20 a.m.:

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating a homicide at the Playhouse Gentleman's Club.

At 3:40 a.m., the HCSO Communications Center received multiple calls for service after shots were fired in the parking lot.

A 33-year-old male was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Carolina Montelongo, Public Relations Coordinator, and Phil Martello, Assistant Chief Communications Officer, will be at the scene and will provide an update when available.

Media are asked to stage in the Public Storage Parking Lot, just across the street from the Playhouse.

Media heading to the scene are asked to RSVP to publicaffairs@teamhcso.com