This browser does not support the Video element.
HERNANDO, Fla. - Two people have been charged in connection with a 2021 homicide that left a 20-year-old dead, according to the Citrus County Sheriff's Office.
After an emergency call about a crash on North Alabaster Drive in Hernando, Marquel "Manny" Murray was found dead inside a 2020 white Dodge pick-up truck in the woods with several gunshot wounds.
Murray was the only person in the car and several bullet holes were seen on the outside of the pick-up truck.
This week, an intensive investigation by the Citrus County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit produced arrest warrants for 29-year-old Thomas Smith and 29-year-old Dmitry Growdon.
Courtesy: Citrus County Sheriff's Office.
Smith was taken into custody on Friday night after a traffic stop and Growdon was already in custody on unrelated charges.
Charges
- 3rd-degree murder with a firearm
- Criminal conspiracy while armed with a firearm
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in connection with a 2021 homicide
READ: Port Richey councilwoman accused of DUI months after crash
Citrus County Sergeant Thomas Dowling says that criminals cannot stay hidden forever.
What they're saying:
"No amount of time can diminish the importance of justice. Our hearts go out to the Murray family, who have been waiting for this moment," said Dowling. "This arrest proves that criminals can't hide forever, and we will not rest until those who commit such acts of violence are held accountable. We will continue to work closely with our partners at the Fifth Judicial Circuit to bring this case to a conclusion."
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the CCSO Major Case Section at 352-726-1121 or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-888-ANY-TIPS (269-8477).
CLICK HERE:>>> Follow FOX 13 on YouTube
The Source: Information for this story was provided by the Citrus County Sheriff's Office.