Crime & Safety
Video Shows Bicyclist Suspected in Tampa Man’s Shooting Death
Tampa Police are trying to identify the man in the video, believed to possibly be connected with the death of Marquette Dames, 24.
Tampa, FL — As the search for the shooter responsible in the death of a 24-year-old Tampa man on July 6 continues, police have released a video they believe may show the suspect they’re after.
“The video shows the unidentified suspect riding a bicycle southbound on 15th Street to Fowler Avenue before fatally shooting 24-year-old Marquette Dames on July 6,” the Tampa Police Department wrote in an email to media.
Dames was shot around 10:30 a.m. near that intersection. Police said the man who fired shots got back on his bicycle after doing so. The bicycle was found later that day, but the suspect was not located.
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Dames was taken to a local hospital, but died July 6 from his injuries.
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Police do not believe the shooting was random. Family members say Dames did not know his attacker.
Anyone who recognizes the man in the video is asked to call Tampa Police at 813-231-6130. Tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-873-TIPS.
In the days following Dames’ death, family members began a GoFundMe account to help pay for his funeral.
“Marquette was gunned down on July 6th 2016 by a complete stranger,” Solomon Dames, Marquette’s younger brother wrote on GoFundMe. “Marquette was a very loving person. He would take the shirt off his back and give it to a person if it was necessary.”
“Marquette Dames was a loveable, caring and respectful man whose life ended too soon,” Vilencia Turner, Marquette's girlfriend, told Patch. “He was raised in the church and believed in helping others.”
The GoFundMe campaign has a goal of $50,000. It was created two days after Dames’ death.
“My brother was taken from this world before he could fulfil his dreams,” Solomon wrote. “He wanted to go to the military, but he could not due to medical conditions. Due to his untimely passing, we are in desperate need to raise funds for his funeral expenses and to set up a trust fund with any remaining funds for his children.”
To donate to the campaign, visit GoFundMe online.
Photo and video courtesy of the Tampa Police Department
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