Florida Man Arrested for Murder of His Mother

TAMPA, Florida – A 36-year-old man has been arrested on charges of first-degree murder following the death of his mother in a Tampa home. 

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) launched a homicide investigation after receiving a distress call from Russell Antonio Moore at 8:22 a.m. on December 9, 2024. Moore, who expressed concerns about his mental health, contacted HCSO's Communications Center, prompting deputies to respond to his residence in the 8000 block of Beaty Grove Drive.

Upon arrival, deputies spoke with Moore, who made threatening statements regarding his 54-year-old mother, Shambray Lavern Levy. Officers then discovered Levy's body inside the home, where she had suffered upper body trauma. 

Moore was arrested at the scene and charged with first-degree premeditated murder and tampering with physical evidence in connection with a capital felony.

"This is an incredibly heartbreaking and tragic situation for the family and everyone involved," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our deputies acted swiftly to investigate, and an arrest has been made. Our hearts go out to the loved ones affected by this unimaginable loss, and we will do everything we can to support them during this difficult time."