MacDill airman killed in deadly Tampa crime spree
Share and Follow

Related video: Victims speaking out after Tampa man violent rampage

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — One of the victims of a violent crime spree in Tampa Sunday night has been identified as a member of the U.S. Air Force.

MacDill Air Force Base said on Jan. 26, Tech Sgt. Richard Padilla was killed in a hit-and-run while walking along Interbay Boulevard.

That same night, Jeremiah Bailey, 48, had been fleeing from a shooting scene while driving in circles at MacDill Avenue and Interbay Boulevard.

Tampa police said Bailey intentionally struck Padilla and another pedestrian, 43-year-old Jesse Rickett, with his car. Rickett was hospitalized in critical condition, but Padilla died at the scene.

Jeremiah Bailey, 48, (Credit: Tampa Police Department)

“Our thoughts are with the families of all those impacted by this tragic series of events,” Chief Lee Bercaw said. “This individual, who already had a violent history, displayed a blatant disregard for human life, resulting in this devastating outcome.”

Bailey was later gunned down in a shootout with Tampa police on I-275, which also injured three officers.

MacDill Air Force Base said Padilla served with the 24th Rapid Deployment Squadron of the 24th Special Operations Wing prior to his death.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of Richie. He embodied what it meant to be a warrior,” said Lt. Col. Michael Biederman, 24th RDS commander. “Our deepest sympathies are with Richie’s family and friends as we all mourn the loss of our teammate, mentor, and friend.”

The base has made counseling services available for those who knew Padilla. The MacDill Military Family Life Counselors can be called at 813-816-3061 or 813-210-7822.

“Team MacDill is mourning the loss of another teammate taken from us too soon,” said Col. Ed Szczepanik, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander. “All of our thoughts are with Tech. Sgt. Padilla’s family and friends. Support agencies, chaplains, first sergeants and leadership teams are here for all who need assistance as we navigate this time of sorrow.”

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Shocking New Epstein Photo Cache Reveals Disturbing Scenes: Democrat Speaks Out

According to The Hill, Representative Suhas Subramanyam, a Democrat from Virginia, revealed…

Washington State Battles Unprecedented Flooding: Heroic Rescues Unfold Amid Historic Rainfall

BURLINGTON, Wash. – As night fell on Eddie Wicks and his spouse…

Federal Funding Boost for Georgia Counties to Address Pending Hurricane Helene Payments

GEORGIA – Federal aid is on its way to several counties in…

DeSantis Pushes for Groundbreaking Constitutional Amendment: A Bold Move for Florida’s Future

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. – This week, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis stepped into…

Comedy Icon Dick Van Dyke Celebrates Milestone 100th Birthday with Enduring Charm

Legendary comedian Dick Van Dyke marked a milestone on Saturday, celebrating his…

Trump Approaches Potential Conflict with Venezuela: Analyzing the Tensions

President Trump has intensified his efforts against Venezuela’s authoritarian leader Nicolás Maduro…

Active Shooter Incident at Brown University: Police Hunt for Suspects as Multiple Injured

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — An unsettling afternoon unfolded at Brown University on…

Lincoln County High School Energizes Students with Pre-Championship Rally

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ga. () — The Lincoln County Red Devils ignited community…