VALRICO, Fla. — Deputies arrested a man and charged him with murder after they say shot an elderly woman in the head on Wednesday.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said they received a call at 4 p.m. from 48-year-old Michael Zammiello reporting an accidental injury.
When deputies arrived at the home on Amber Ridge Lane in Valrico, they found Shirley St. Pearre, 73, who had been shot in the head. She was taken to a local hospital, where she later died.
Deputies said Zammiello admitted to detectives that he accidentally shot St. Pearre inside the home during an interview. He was taken into custody and, after further investigation, is now facing a charge of pre-meditated first-degree murder with a firearm.
"This was a senseless act of violence, and our detectives have worked tirelessly to ensure justice is served," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "The evidence uncovered in this investigation leaves no doubt about the suspect's intent, and we will do everything in our power to hold him accountable for this horrific crime."
This is still an ongoing investigation.
Brides, families fighting for refunds after event venue closes suddenly
“We’ve struggled so hard to scrape the money to be able to do this for her,” Irizarry said. “She’s my only girl and I wanted this so much for her.”
Couples and families who had weddings and events planned at a well-known venue that abruptly closed claim they’re out thousands of dollars and aren’t being given refunds. Annette Irizarry was supposed to hold her 15-year-old daughter’s quinceañera in August at the Clearwater location and said she’s now out the $6,160 she paid. Without that money, Irizarry said she can’t afford to have her daughter’s celebration somewhere else.
