A 30-year-old Florida man was arrested on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. He is being accused of the brutal murder of his 73-year-old aunt, in her Tampa apartment.
The incident came weeks after the victim, Sandra Bailey, opened her home to Antelo Shavonne Simpson, 30, and his mother when they had nowhere else to live.
The gruesome scene came to light when Bailey’s daughter reported to the 911 emergency line that she discovered her mother’s lifeless body in the apartment, facedown in the bathroom, with indications of a struggle and blood throughout the home. On inspection, it was found that Bailey had suffered stab wounds to her neck inflicted by a ceramic knife.
The ensuing investigation saw detectives interviewing family members and reviewing surveillance footage to piece together the series of events that led to Bailey’s death. Among the people interviewed was Simpson’s mother, who provided crucial evidence about her son’s involvement in the incident. However, the investigation report did not specify the exact nature of the evidence she presented.
Major Patrick Messmer of the Tampa Police Department, told the press, “The evidence does suggest that they were known to each other, and he was allowed entry into the residence.” Adding,“He was well known to the victim, so there was no signs of any kind of forced entry. This was definitely not a random act.”
Antelo Simpson is currently in custody, facing charges for the alleged murder of his aunt. Details about the motive or the circumstances that might have led to this brutal act are still under investigation.
Antelo Simpson appeared in court on Friday, October 27 for his first hearing wearing an anti-suicide vest. The pre-trial detention hearing has been set for Wednesday, November 1.
