News Summary
An 18-year-old Tampa man, Antonio Gueits, faces first-degree murder charges following the brutal attack on 65-year-old Cerida Charon, which ultimately led to her death months later. The tragic incident occurred in December 2024 at University Area Park when Gueits assaulted Charon, leaving her severely injured. Despite medical treatment, Charon succumbed to her injuries in March 2025. The community remains in shock as authorities continue their investigation and seek justice.
Tampa Man Charged with First-Degree Murder Following Fatal Attack on 65-Year-Old Woman
In a shocking turn of events, an 18-year-old man from Tampa is facing serious charges after a horrific attack on a senior citizen that led to her tragic death. The suspect, identified as Antonio Gueits, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection to the brutal assault that occurred in late December 2024.
The Incident
The gruesome incident unfolded on December 26, in the early morning hours, approximately at 6:56 a.m. at University Area Park, a place that was meant to be a hub for community gatherings and enjoyment. Instead, it became the scene of a terrible act of violence. Law enforcement arrived to find 65-year-old Cerida Charon severely injured and in desperate need of medical assistance after being attacked and robbed.
The Attack
According to surveillance footage obtained by the authorities, the images are disturbing. We see Gueits striking Charon in the face, which caused her to collapse onto the ground. But it didn’t stop there. While she lay unconscious, Gueits allegedly stomped on her head multiple times. This shocking display of violence left Charon with severe injuries, including broken bones and a brain bleed.
The Aftermath
After the violent assault, Gueits reportedly stole Charon’s purse and fled the scene, leaving her in a vulnerable state. It was later that same day when law enforcement officials were able to identify Gueits. He was taken into custody without any incident, but the damage had already been done.
Despite receiving medical attention immediately after the attack, Charon’s condition worsened over time. She remained hospitalized until her passing on March 16, 2025, at Morton Plant Hospital. An autopsy conducted by the Pinellas County Medical Examiner confirmed that Charon’s cause of death was due to complications from blunt force head trauma, with her death being ruled a homicide.
The Charges
Just a day after Charon’s death, on March 17, 2025, authorities stepped up the charges against Gueits, officially charging him with first-degree murder. This decision underscores the serious nature of his actions and the repercussions that follow such violent crimes. The local sheriff has made it clear that the attack is viewed as not only an assault but a completely senseless and inhumane act committed over “nothing more than a purse.”
Community Response
The community in Tampa, understandably, is shaken by this incident. The sheriff has expressed his commitment to ensuring that Gueits is held fully accountable for his actions. It’s a sentiment echoed by many who are outraged by the nature of the crime and are calling for justice for Charon and her family.
Ongoing Investigation
As investigations continue, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office remains active in seeking justice. Authorities are likely to provide updates and more details as things unfold. For the moment, the focus is on holding Gueits accountable for his actions and offering some sense of closure to the family of the victim.
This tragic case serves as a grim reminder of the unpredictable nature of violence in everyday life and the importance of community safety. Everyone hopes that justice will be served for Cerida Charon, a woman whose life was cut short in an unfathomable way.
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Additional Resources
- Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Press Release
- WTSP: Teen Charged in Murder Following Attack
- Fox 13 News: Jury Deliberates in Shooting Case
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime
- Google Search: Violence in the Community
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
