Riverview Woman Dead Following Domestic Dispute

A 48-year-old Riverview man faces second-degree murder charges after Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputies say his wife died following an attack at the couple’s home.

The incident unfolded around 7:10 a.m. when Michelle Dukes, 35, and her husband Keith got into an argument at their 8818 Van Fleet Road home, according to an arrest affidavit. Deputies say that argument turned violent when Keith Dukes picked up a sharp object and cut his wife across the neck.

The couple’s three daughters witnessed as their mother ran out of the home screaming for help, the affidavit stated. Michelle ran to a neighbor’s home for assistance, but the affidavit states that Keith followed, armed with a gun.

Keith Dukes then pointed the gun at neighbor, Frank Breden, 52, and pulled the trigger, the affidavit states. The gun jammed, allowing Breden and Michelle Dukes to run toward the home at 8817 Van Fleet Road. A single gunshot rang out as the two ran toward the home.

Deputies say the pair managed to get into the home and barricade themselves in a room. Keith Dukes, however, gained access and is accused of firing three rounds at his wife.

Following a scuffle with witnesses, Keith Dukes fled the scene, but was brought into custody shortly after the Thursday morning incident.

Michelle Dukes was taken to a local hospital, but died from her injuries late Thursday night, the sheriff’s office announced.

The Dukes, the affidavit said, were separated. Their daughters, ages 7, 13, and 14 were uninjured.

Keith Dukes is being held at the Hillsborough County Jail without bond. He faces one count of second degree murder, two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm and one count of armed burglary of an occupied dwelling.

Photo of Keith Dukes courtesy of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

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