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A Tampa resident has admitted guilt in connection to a gas station robbery and firearm discharge, as announced by the Department of Justice. The incident unfolded on March 8, 2025, and involved 31-year-old Rafael Jimenez.
According to court documents, Jimenez entered the Tampa gas station with a weapon and demanded cash from the register. In a tense moment, he fired a shot towards the clerk, with the bullet hitting the floor just behind the employee.
Jimenez made off with cigarettes and over $600 in cash. Authorities were able to track him down after reviewing surveillance footage from days before the robbery, which highlighted his distinctive tattoo and helped identify him as the culprit.
Further incriminating evidence was discovered in Jimenez’s garbage, where investigators found a ski mask, gloves, and the same brand of cigarettes as those taken during the robbery, further solidifying his involvement.
Evidence found in Jimenez’s trash also linked him to the robbery, including a ski mask, gloves, and cigarettes of the same brand that the robber had used.
Surveillance video showed a vehicle like Jimenez’s traveling near the scene before and after the robbery took place.
Jimenez pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act robbery, one count of possession and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
He faces a minimum of 10 years to life in federal prison.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 23.