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Release Number: 09-349

For Immediate Release

Public Information Office

December 31, 2009

Debbie Carter: dcarter@hcso.tampa.fl.us

(813) 247-8060

 

 

Who:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Suspect:

Esteban Merchan,  DOB 6-17-90

Last known address – 4115 Wellington Woods Circle

                                       Kissimmee, Florida

Description:  Hispanic male, 5’7”, 160 – 170 lbs., brown eyes, short black hair.

Gang member – “Bloods”

 

Possible operating a 2009 Silver Toyota Prius, four door – Florida tag V 8 0 8 S D

 

 

 
What:

Warrant issued  for One count Aggravated Battery with a deadly weapon
When:

Warrant issued – December 31, 2009

Incident occurred – December 29, 2009
Where:

Incident occurred at 507 Oakwood Avenue South, Brandon
Why/How:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As a result of the ongoing investigation into the triple homicide that occurred on December 29, 2009 (see press release 09-347), Esteban Merchan has been identified as having attacked and committed the Aggravated Battery on the surviving victim, Ralph Arroyo.  Merchan was identified based on witness statements.

 

At this time, investigators are continuing  to investigate Merchan’s involvement  in the triple homicide and  a warrant has been issued for Merchan charging him with one count of Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon (knife) involving the victim Arroyo.

 

Investigators have further information that Merchan may be operating a 2009 Silver Toyota Prius, four door, with Florida tag V 8 0 8 S D and may be driving to New York State.  He is considered armed and dangerous.

 

Anyone with any information reference Esteban Merchan is asked to call the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 247-8200 or Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-8477.