Brothers arrested in Lakeland murder, police say
Lakeland Police Department
LAKELAND, Fla. - Lakeland police say they arrested two brothers after a man died from an apparent gunshot wound.
The murder occurred around 7:10 p.m. Friday near the 400 block of Cornelia Avenue. On Sunday, detectives arrested 31-year-old Roberto Rodriguez and 30-year-old Reynaldo Rodriguez.
According to detectives, they were hanging out with the victim, a 23-year-old man, and others at a home on Cornelia Avenue. A fight broke out with the victim and Roberto left the home and returned to shoot the victim, officials said.
Detectives said Roberto and Reynaldo fled in a white four-door Toyota Camry. They said evidence and witness statements led them to the brothers' home on Beech Avenue where a vehicle, matching the suspects' vehicle description, was located.
After receiving a search warrant, detectives said they found a handgun that may have been used in the murder. Both were arrested on murder charges.
"Our detectives have worked non-stop to bring the persons responsible for this heinous act into custody," said Chief Rub Garcia. "We now work toward giving a family justice."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Hathcock at 863-834-6975 or tammy.hathcock@Lakelandgov.net. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-8477 or visit www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com.