By A 19-year-old teenager from Tampa, Florida, murdered his parents execution-style and shot a sheriff’s deputy during a tense standoff with police on Saturday night. The violent incident, which unfolded inside the family’s home, was captured on dramatic body cam footage released by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, Christos Themelis Jr., 19, obtained a firearm and fatally shot his father, Christos Themelis, 51, inside their Tampa residence. The teen’s mother, Rebecca Themelis, 48, managed to place a frantic 911 call, informing dispatchers that her son had shot her husband. Gunfire could be heard in the background during the distressing call.
As sheriff’s deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered Rebecca Themelis in the front yard with her son, who was armed with the gun. The police body cam footage revealed the intense standoff between the deputies and Christos Jr. as he held his mother hostage. In the video, one of the deputies can be heard yelling at the teen, “Stop reaching for your waistband!”
Tragically, Christos Jr. pulled out the firearm and shot his mother in the back of the head, killing her instantly. He then turned the gun on the police, striking Deputy Shane McGough in the leg. The body cam footage captured the moment Deputy McGough announced that he had been “hit” and showed his partner dragging him to safety.
Several other deputies engaged in a shootout with Christos Jr., ultimately resulting in the teenager’s death.
Deputy McGough was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where he underwent surgery for his leg injury. Police reported that McGough was recovering and in good spirits following the operation.
As of Monday morning, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office was still working to determine the motive behind this horrific incident.
The devastating event has left the Tampa community in shock and mourning. The loss of Christos and Rebecca Themelis has undoubtedly had a profound impact on their loved ones and the neighborhood they called home.
The bravery and quick actions of the sheriff’s deputies in responding to the dangerous situation and ensuring the safety of the public cannot be overstated. The body cam footage serves as a chilling reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face on a daily basis as they work to protect and serve their communities.
As the investigation into this tragic incident continues, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Tampa community will work together to heal and seek answers in the face of this senseless act of violence.
TMZ
