Firstdegree murder charge announced in connection to death of Maebelle Cooper, six years ago
Jul 31, 2026
Lakeland Police Chief Sam Taylor announced new indictments, including a first-degree murder charge in connection with the Christmas Eve death of a grandmother in 2020.Watch the press conference from Chief Taylor Press conference
| arrests made in two homicide casesOn Dec. 24, 2020, Maebelle Cooper, was struck twice and killed by gunfire. Three others, including a 13-year-old, were also shot and wounded.Chief Taylor announced Taqiy Lewis was indicted for first-degree murder for the death of Cooper. Lewis was previously sentenced to 30 years in prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon in connection with the death.Two additional arrests for attempted murder were announced in connection with the case.Chief Taylor said it is looking for another suspect, Carlos Morris. He has an arrest warrant for attempted first-degree murder, and he has ties to the Lakeland area.This is a developing story. Tampa Bay 28 will provide more details as they become available.
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