TAMPA, FL – Tampa Police are investigating a series of violent events on the evening of January 26, 2025, which culminated in the fatal shooting of a suspect, 48-year-old Jeremiah Bailey, following a series of hit-and-run incidents that left one pedestrian dead and several others injured.
Details of the Incidents
At approximately 8:35 p.m., Tampa Police received reports of erratic behavior from Bailey, which began with an altercation at a Dollar General store. Bailey intentionally blocked the vehicle of 47-year-old Eric Archield in the store’s parking lot. After a brief exchange, Archield was able to leave the scene, but Bailey followed him to a nearby residence, where he struck Archield with his vehicle. Archield sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
Juan Acevedo Death & Obituary: 12-Year-Old’s Body Found in Virginia Beach Pond After AMBER Alert
Bailey continued his reckless actions, driving northbound on MacDill Avenue. Witnesses reported that his white Honda veered off the road and intentionally struck 43-year-old Jesse Rickett, causing severe head injuries. Rickett was transported to the hospital in critical condition.
Soon after, Bailey struck and fatally injured an unidentified adult Hispanic male on Interbay Boulevard. Authorities are working to confirm his identity and notify next of kin.
Further Escalation and Officer-Involved Shooting
Bailey’s violent spree continued as he struck 41-year-old Timothy Harden, who was crossing the street near West Shore Boulevard. Harden was hospitalized, while his wife was unharmed. Tampa Police quickly located Bailey’s vehicle and initiated a pursuit.
Officers successfully stopped Bailey’s vehicle using a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver. After giving multiple verbal commands, Bailey’s actions led officers to believe their lives were in imminent danger, prompting them to open fire. Bailey was struck and pronounced dead at the scene. No firearm was found in his possession or his vehicle, though searches of areas he traveled are ongoing.
Injuries and Officer Details
Three officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the incident, likely due to ricochets or debris. These officers were treated at a local hospital and have since been released. The seven officers who discharged their firearms during the incident have been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
Investigation and Official Statements
The FDLE is leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting, and Tampa Police detectives are working to determine the motives behind Bailey’s violent actions. Tampa Police Chief Bercaw expressed support for the officers’ actions, stating, “This video footage highlights the heroic efforts made by our officers to stop an ongoing and dangerous threat to our community.”
Ongoing Investigation and Call for Information
Authorities continue to investigate the hit-and-run incidents and Bailey’s motivations. They are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact the Tampa Police Department at (813) 231-6130 or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-TIPS.
Conclusion: Community Safety and Support for Victims
This tragic series of events serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by reckless behavior and the efforts law enforcement must take to protect public safety. Our thoughts remain with the victims of these violent acts, and the Tampa Police Victim Advocate Unit is providing necessary support and resources to those affected.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working diligently to provide answers while ensuring the community’s safety moving forward.