New Tampa Father Dies In Sunday's Crash

NEW TAMPA, FL -- A 42-year-old New Tampa man has died as a result of a crash on New Tampa Boulevard and Wood Sage Drive just before noon on Sunday, June 24.

Tampa Police officers have arrested Mikese Morse, 30, Tampa, for premeditated first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder in the death of Pedro Aguerreberry and injuries to Lucas and Bennett Aguerreberry of New Tampa.

They said witnesses saw Morse make a U-turn in his 2008 Dodge Avenger, intentionally speed up and drive off the road onto a bike path, deliberating striking the father and his two sons who were out for a Sunday bike ride. Morse then reportedly fled the scene.

All three victims were transported to a local hospital where Pedro Aguerreberry was later pronounced dead. Bennett Aguerreberry, age 3, is being treated for a leg fracture. Lucas, age 7, suffered minor injuries. Both children are expected to recover.

During the investigation, Hillsborough County Sheriff deputies located Morse' maroon Dodge Avenger in the Pebble Creek subdivision, about two blocks from the home where Morse' parents live. Plastic was taped to the broken windshield. They confirmed it was the car involved in the hit-and-run based on damage to the front end and windshield. They then arrested Morse at his parents' Pebble Creek home.

Police Chief Brian Dugan did not say why Morse purposely struck the father and sons.

Video via Tampa Police

Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan addresses the media following the deadly New Tampa crash.