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Tarpon Springs Police Seek Suspect in Motel Murder

Fredrick A. Bentley | Tarpon Springs Police | TB Reporter

Tarpon Springs police are asking the public’s help in finding the suspect.

TARPON SPRINGS – Police here are searching for a man they say killed another this morning (Aug. 27) at the Sunbay Motel.

Tarpon Springs police officials say they are searching for Fredrick Alvin Bentley, 39, who was living at the Sunbay, 57 W Tarpon Ave. Officers said Bentley has prior convictions in 2001 for resisting arrest with violence and armed robbery. He was released from the Department of Corrections’ custody in 2003.

Police said they were called to the Sunbay about 4:34 this morning (Aug. 27) about a shooting. When officers arrived, they found the victim, Tarenzo Ladarius Smith, 27, in the parking lot. He had been living at the motel. He was pronounced dead by Tarpon Springs Fire Rescue.

Officers said they believe that Bentley, who was living in another room at the motel, and Mr. Smith had an argument. They said Bentley had apparently gone to get a firearm and had shot Mr. Smith, at close range, when he returned with the weapon. Bentley fled on foot, police said. Police searched the area with a K9 but did not find Bentley.

Police said they want to arrest Bentley and charge him with murder. They do not know if he is armed. Police are asking anyone with information on Bentley’s location to call the Tarpon Springs Police Department at (727) 938-2849.

For information about the Tarpon Springs police, go to tspd.us.

Tarpon Springs Police | Crime | Murder | Murder Suspect | TB Reporter

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