Arrest Warrant Issued, Reward Sought in Family Dollar Shooting and Robbery

Authorities on Wednesday issued an arrest warrant for a man they say is wanted in connection with a fatal shooting and robbery at Family Dollar earlier this week.

Tips led to the identification of Demetrius Parks, 23, who has lived with family and friends since he was released from prison on March 31, 2012, according to the Tampa Police Department. Parks has an extensive criminal record, police say. He served three years in prison for weapons charges, and was arrested numerous times for crimes that include burglary, grand theft and felon in possession of a firearm, police say.

Parks is accused of robbing a Family Dollar at 4900 N. 40th Street on Sunday before shooting U.S. Army veteran Horsley Shorter, Jr., who later died at a local hospital.

The vehicle Parks used to get away was recovered earlier this week, police say, in addition to some of his clothes.

In addition, a $16,000 reward is being offered leading to his arrest and conviction.
The U.S. Marshals Office contributed $10,000, the Family Dollar Corporation has
put up $5,000 and a $1,000 donation from Crime Stoppers.

Anyone with information is asked to call (813) 309-0467.