Tampa Republic

On January 26, 2025, Tampa Police identified Jeremiah Bailey as the suspect in a series of hit-and-run incidents that left one person dead and three others injured. The 48-year-old was reported to be armed and dangerous as he drove through south Tampa locations, striking pedestrians with his vehicle. Bailey's actions resulted in multiple crime scenes under active investigation.

Bailey has a criminal history including charges such as Battery on Law Enforcement Officer and Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon. He was released from Florida State Prison in October 2022.

The events began at a Dollar General store where Bailey blocked Eric Archield’s vehicle, leading to an argument. Bailey later followed Archield and struck him with his car. Archield sustained minor injuries.

Bailey continued driving erratically on MacDill Ave, where he allegedly hit Jesse Rickett, who is now in critical condition at the hospital. He then fatally struck an unidentified Hispanic male on Interbay Blvd. Police are working to identify the victim and notify next of kin.

A Tampa Police officer spotted Bailey shortly after the fatal incident but was unable to apprehend him before he fled again. During this time, Bailey also struck Timothy Harden at West Shore Bl and Lemon St., though Harden survived.

Police pursued Bailey onto I275 northbound, where they executed a PIT maneuver to stop him. Officers fired their weapons when they believed their lives were threatened by Bailey's actions; he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Seven officers discharged their weapons during the incident: Officer Algenis Maceo, Officer Jacob Petit, Officer Andrew Haase, Officer Bryan Velazquez, Officer Erik Lopez, Officer Santiago Alzate-Castro, and Officer Nathan Berry. Three officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries: Sergeant Joe Ltief, Officer Rachel Carr, and Officer Joseph Barry.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the officer-involved shooting while Tampa Police continue probing each incident related to Bailey’s actions. All involved officers have been placed on administrative leave as per standard procedure.

Chief Lee Bercaw stated: "This video shows the heroic efforts these Tampa Police Officers took to stop an ongoing and committed threat to our community." He expressed support for those affected by these events.

Updates will be provided as investigations proceed.