Man arrested for fatal shooting over sock package, police say

TAMPA, Florida. – A man was arrested for shooting and killing a person after a dispute over socks escalated last month, according to Tampa police.

Officials say officers were called to 11001 N. 15th St. on Aug. 9 after receiving a report of a shooting. Police say a black man in his early 20s was found there.

Authorities believe the man was shot.

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According to police, the victim was taken to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

According to police, a witness reported an argument between the suspect – later identified as 30-year-old Jerome Alexander Parker – and the victim over a package of socks.

According to TPD, Parker and the victim did not know each other.

Investigators say the witness told them that Parker accused the victim of stealing his socks after finding them on the floor. The argument ended with Parker threatening the victim with a gun and the victim hitting Parker, officials said.

According to investigators, Parker shot the victim.

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According to investigators, evidence, including DNA, was collected during the investigation and Parker was identified as a suspect.

“This was a completely senseless act of violence that cost a young man his life,” said Police Chief Lee Bercaw. “I am grateful that the diligent work of our investigators has led to an arrest that will hopefully provide some closure for the victim's family.”

Parker was charged with first-degree intentional murder with a firearm causing great bodily injury or death.

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