An arrest has been made in connection with a homicide Saturday evening in Plant City, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) announced.
Faustino Antunez, 48, was arrested today by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) after he was involved in a traffic crash and was suspected of driving under the influence. He also provided a false name to the officers.
Antunez, who is in Manatee County Jail, has been charged in Hillsborough County for Murder in the Second Degree, Attempted Murder in the First Degree Premeditated and Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit Felony with Weapon (x3).
On Aug. 19, police responded to the scene on Branch Forbes Road, at approximately 5:46 p.m., following reports of shots being fired during a birthday party, where witnesses at the scene said at least ten people were in attendance when the shooter discharged his weapon. One male victim in his 40s was shot in the chest and pronounced dead at the scene. Another male was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
“The quick work of our detectives will ensure this man has to answer for his violence,” said HCSO Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The collaboration between teamHCSO and MCSO exemplifies the power of shared purpose, combined expertise and a common goal: to make our community safe.”
The investigation is ongoing.