TAMPA, Fla. — More than two years after the fatal shooting of Leon Michael Washington, 29, outside a Tampa apartment complex, authorities have arrested a second suspect. Jaylen Whittaker, 24, was taken into custody on Monday, facing a charge of first-degree murder in connection with the 2023 killing.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to the shooting on May 29, 2023, around 2:15 p.m. at an apartment complex located in the 6800 block of North 50th Street. Washington was found at the scene suffering from a deadly gunshot wound.
Witnesses led investigators to a gold Hyundai Elantra captured on nearby surveillance footage just before the shooting occurred. The vehicle’s driver, Jalen Rogers, 28, was arrested on June 15, 2023, and charged as the principal in the premeditated first-degree murder.
Sheriff Chad Chronister praised the detectives’ commitment, saying, “Justice does not fade with time. Our detectives worked tirelessly for over two years to hold every person responsible accountable. This arrest honors the victim, his family, and the community.”
Whittaker’s arrest marks a significant step toward resolving the case and bringing closure to those affected by the tragic event.
