Tampa Man Facing Murder, Attempted Murder Charges After Allegedly Attacking Parents With A Knife

A Tampa man is facing murder and attempted murder charges after authorities say he killed his father and nearly killed his mother in a savage knife attack.

Prosecutors say the 21-year-old man first came to their attention due to a 9-1-1 report by his mother of him acting in an erratic fashion. Erratic then turned to irate, per detectives, when the defendant grabbed a kitchen knife.

Detectives say his 52-year-old father attempted to intervene, but he became a victim instead as the defendant began raining down blows. Mounted atop his father, they say he continued the attack unabated until his 55-year-old mother attempted to calm his apparent rage. However, her intervention won her a slashing as well.

First responders finally arrived at the scene, stabilizing both parents and taking them to hospital. The father expired after arrival, while the mother was treated for stab wounds about her head and torso. The defendant was also transported to hospital for treatment of a severe stab wound to his hand.

Investigators say he requested an attorney when they attempted to interview him on the subject, but they say he admitted to them that he had attacked his father that morning with a knife. They have not released their theory on a motive, but the defendant’s mother allegedly told them that he may have been suffering from mental illness triggered by his recent job loss.

The Plains High School graduate was booked into the Hillsborough County Jail on the morning of May 22 on charges of second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder. He continues to be held in jail without bond.

The Law Offices of Bjorn Brunvand have been representing people charged with capital murder, felony drug charges, drunk driving, government fraud, and white-collar crimes for over a quarter century. Conact our office today to discuss your Tampa Bay-area state or federal charges.