Tampa Police have apprehended a 29-year-old man, Andre Aris, in connection with the death of a 35-year-old male whose decomposed body was discovered near a Dona Michelle Drive storage facility. According to the Tampa Police Department, the victim was found on June 21, after officers were called to the scene at around 11:54 a.m.
Following identification using a Florida Driver’s License found at the scene, officers launched an investigation that led them to Aris. Found in possession of several of the victim's photo IDs, it was initially reported that the victim had given Aris permission to sell his red 2006 Dodge Charger, which was later seen being driven by the suspect. The deceased had been living in the vehicle before his death, police investigations revealed.
The victim’s vehicle was located on June 22, parked at a Madison Creek Drive residence. Subsequently, Aris was taken into custody by law enforcement. Confirming to detectives that he had met the victim about a month prior, Aris's story allegedly changed during questioning, leading to contradictions about the origin of the vehicle in his possession.
Evidence connecting Aris to the murder was found after detectives executed search warrants at a nearby storage facility and hotel. Charged with one felony count each of first-degree murder and grand theft motor vehicle, Aris is currently being held at Orient Road Jail, as the investigation into the 35-year-old man's death continues.
