Patrolman Morris D. Lopez, Sr.

Morris D. Lopez, Sr.

Patrolman Morris Lopez was shot and killed by unknown assailants at 7th Avenue and 16th Street in Ybor City while on foot patrol.

Around 9:40 p.m., a vehicle suddenly stopped, and a shot rang out, striking Patrolman Lopez in the chest. Before succumbing to his wounds, he was able to give a description of the vehicle and his attackers. He died at Municipal Hospital.

A suspect who had threatened Patrolman Lopez was detained, but no charges were ever filed. The case remains open.

Patolman Lopez was a United States Navy veteran had served with the Tampa Police Department for two years. He was survived by his wife, son, daughter, parents, five brothers, and two sisters. One of his brothers also served in law enforcement.