Tampa, FL (February 2025) — Charles Zumbahlen, 31, has been arrested in connection with the fatal drug overdose of 27-year-old Zachary Reed on November 25, 2024. Zumbahlen faces first-degree murder charges after authorities determined that he supplied Reed with the fentanyl that led to his death.
According to the Tampa Police Department, officers responded to a call at 9:30 a.m. on November 25 to the 1000 block of E 32nd Avenue, where they found Reed deceased in his bedroom. A cell phone and a clear bag containing a white powdery substance were discovered near Reed. Investigations later revealed that Zumbahlen was the last person seen with Reed before his death.
The next day, November 26, Zumbahlen was stopped during a traffic stop by a different law enforcement agency, and narcotics were found in his possession. During questioning, Zumbahlen admitted that he worked with Reed and regularly supplied him with narcotics.
Tests confirmed that both the narcotics found in Zumbahlen’s possession and the substance found in Reed’s bedroom were fentanyl and a tranquilizer. The Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Reed’s cause of death was acute fentanyl intoxication.
Following his arrest, Zumbahlen was charged with first-degree murder resulting from the unlawful distribution of fentanyl.
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw emphasized the department’s commitment to combatting the deadly opioid epidemic:
“This arrest should send a clear message that there is zero tolerance for this behavior in our community,” said Bercaw. “The Tampa Police Department is committed to holding these individuals accountable for the harm they cause.”
Zumbahlen is currently facing legal proceedings, and authorities continue their efforts to address the ongoing opioid crisis.
