The suspect for last night's homicide in Plant City was arrested in Manatee County early this morning.
Faustino Antunez, 48, was arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) after he was involved in a traffic crash and was suspected of driving under the influence. He also provided a false name to their deputies.
Antunez is in Manatee County Jail and has been charged in Hillsborough County for:
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Murder in the Second Degree
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Attempted Murder in the First Degree Premeditated
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Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit Felony with Weapon (x3)
"The quick work of our detectives will ensure this man has to answer for his violence," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "The collaboration between teamHCSO and MCSO exemplifies the power of shared purpose, combined expertise, and a common goal: to make our community safe."
The investigation is ongoing; any updates will come from the Public Affairs Office.
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Saturday, August 19, 2023: 10:00 p.m.
Detectives are investigating the moments that led up to a fatal shooting on Branch Forbes Rd. in Plant City on Saturday, August 19, 2023.
At 5:46 p.m., the HCSO Communications Center received a call from someone in attendance at a birthday party where shots had been fired. Witnesses at the scene said at least ten people were attending this party when the shooter discharged his weapon.
One male in his 40s was shot in the chest and pronounced deceased at the scene and another person is in the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
"There is never a reason for a joyous occasion to turn violent," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our unrelenting detectives will now work this case tirelessly until the suspect is apprehended and held accountable for this tragedy."
The investigation is ongoing; any updates will come from the Public Affairs Office.
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August 19, 2023: 8:27 p.m.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is investigating a homicide on Branch Forbes Road in Plant City.
One person is deceased and another is in the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after a shooting at a party.
Assistant Chief Communications Officer Phil Martello and Public Relations Coordinator Casey Minuto are on their way to the scene and will provide updates when available.
Media should stage at the corner of Speer Crest Park and Branch Forbes Road.