Tampa Police Charge 18-Year-Old with Murder in Elderly Woman’s Death

News Summary

The Tampa community is in shock after the tragic death of 65-year-old Cerida Charon, following a brutal attack. 18-year-old Antonio Gueits has been charged with first-degree murder after the assault, which was captured on surveillance footage. The incident highlights the urgent concerns surrounding safety in community spaces, sparking outrage and grief among residents as they process this horrific event.

Tampa Police Arrest 18-Year-Old Following Tragic Attack on Elderly Woman

In a shocking incident that has left the Tampa community reeling, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has charged 18-year-old Antonio Gueits with first-degree murder. This grave charge stems from a brutal attack that ultimately led to the death of 65-year-old Cerida Charon.

A Disturbing Incident

The harrowing event unfolded on December 26, 2024, just as the sun began to rise at around 6:56 a.m. at University Area Park, located at 14013 N. 22nd Street in Tampa. Authorities were summoned to the scene after reports of an assault, where deputies arrived to find Charon in a dire condition, having been violently attacked and robbed.

Brutality Caught on Camera

Surveillance footage later revealed the shocking nature of the crime, with Gueits seen striking Charon in the face, causing her to collapse onto the ground. While she lay unconscious, Gueits allegedly proceeded to repeatedly stomp on her head, causing extensive injuries that included multiple broken bones and a serious brain bleed.

The Aftermath

In a callous turn of events, Gueits, after inflicting such harm, reportedly stole Charon’s purse before fleeing the scene. The investigation into the crime advanced rapidly when detectives identified Gueits, leading to his arrest later that same day without any resistance.

Tragic Outcome

Following the attack, Charon was hospitalized, clinging to life until her passing on March 16, 2025, at Morton Plant Hospital. An autopsy conducted by the Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that her death resulted from complications related to blunt force head trauma sustained during the assault, officially ruling her death a homicide.

Initial Charges and Community Reaction

The news of Charon’s death led to Gueits being formally charged with first-degree murder on March 17, 2025. This brutal incident has prompted outrage and grief among the local community, highlighting the senseless and inhumane nature of the attack. The grim reality is that such violence can happen anywhere, even in community hubs that should feel safe.

Ongoing Investigation

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, with updates expected to be released by the Public Affairs Office. As the community comes to grips with this loss, many are left asking how such violence could occur and what can be done to prevent these types of tragedies in the future.

A Community in Mourning

As Tampa residents process their grief over Charon’s death, conversations surrounding safety and community support are becoming increasingly important. This tragic case serves as a reminder of the vulnerability that some residents face, highlighting a need for vigilance and compassion among community members.

Looking Ahead

As the judicial process unfolds, many will eagerly await what comes next. The ramifications of this case are profound, with a community collectively in mourning and a family bearing the unbearable weight of loss. The hope is that through support and awareness, the community can heal and grow stronger in the face of such horrific acts.

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Additional Resources

• WTSP News
• Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
• Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
• Google Search: Hillsborough County crime
• News Break
• Google Scholar: Violent crime statistics
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
• Google News: Tampa violence