2nd suspect arrested 2 years after man gunned down outside Tampa apartments: HCSO
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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A second suspect has been arrested more than two years after a drive-by shooting outside a Tampa apartment complex that left 29-year-old Leon Michael Washington dead.

Jaylen Whittaker, 24, was taken into custody on Monday, Aug. 11 and charged with premeditated first-degree murder with a firearm, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies said they responded to the Del Rio Apartments shortly after 2:15 p.m. on May 29, 2023, when people began calling 911 saying they heard gunshots in the area.

Washington was found dead in front of the complex. Authorities said he suffered a gunshot wound.

Detectives later learned that a gold Hyundai Elantra had been seen traveling past the apartments. Someone inside the car opened fire, shooting several times before the vehicle was seen driving away, officials said.

Investigators now believe the shooter was Whittaker.

The driver of the Hyundai Elantra, identified as Jalen Lavar Rogers, 28, was arrested on June 15, 2023, and charged as a principal to premeditated first-degree murder, according to authorities.

“Justice does not fade with time,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Our detectives worked tirelessly for more than two years to ensure every person responsible for this murder was held accountable. This arrest is a testament to their dedication to the victim, his family, and this community.”

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