Tampa Police Reclassify Fatal Hit & Run Investigation to Homicide News Tampa Police TAMPA, FL. (MAY 9, 2026) - -The Tampa Police Department has reclassified a fatal hit-and-run[...]

TAMPA, FL. (MAY 9, 2026) - -The Tampa Police Department has reclassified a fatal hit-and-run investigation into a homicide case. The investigation began early Sunday morning, June 7, 2026, when hospital staff notified officers that a patient had died after being struck by a vehicle.

Detectives immediately began gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses, which led them to identify 32-year-old Jose Zamora Valdes (Hispanic male, 11/21/1993) as the suspect. An arrest warrant has been issued for his arrest.

Investigators determined that the incident began around 4:30 am on Sunday, June 7, 2026, inside the Vale after-hours nightclub, located at 7123 N. Armenia Ave. Reports indicate Zamora Valdes was being ejected from the establishment after becoming involved in an altercation with a woman he knew. As security staff escorted him out of the business, Zamora Valdes pushed the woman, causing her to stumble into another patron and triggering a brief verbal dispute.

The security guard, a Hispanic male in his mid-30s then began walking toward his car with his friend, a Hispanic male in his early 40s.

Zamora Valdes entered his vehicle and drove northbound on Armenia Ave before making a sharp, intentional turn to strike the security guard. The security guard was critically injured and later died. His friend sustained minor injuries.

Following the attack, Zamora Valdes fled the scene. The vehicle he was driving has since been located and impounded.

Homicide detectives have secured an arrest warrant. The Tampa Police Fugitive Apprehension Unit and the U.S. Marshals Task Force are actively working to locate and arrest Zamora Valdes on the charges of Murder and Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

"Our hearts go out to the family and colleagues of the security guard who lost his life while simply doing his job to keep others safe," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "Using a vehicle as a weapon and driving into unsuspecting victims is a cowardly act, and it has no place in our community. Our officers, detectives, Fugitive Apprehension Unit, and federal partners, are working tirelessly to ensure this dangerous individual is taken off the streets and will face justice for his actions."

Tampa Police are asking anyone who may have information that could assist investigators in determining Zamora Valdes' current location to call 813.231.6130 and refer to report number 26-336350. Those who wish to remain anonymous can share tips by contacting Crimestoppers of Tampa Bay at 800.873.TIPS.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Updates can be provided as the investigation allows.