TAMPA, Fla. – The Tampa Police Department (TPD) released updated information and body-worn camera video today concerning the events leading to an in-custody death investigation of a man struck by a car while fleeing police on Tuesday.
The deceased has been identified as 35-year-old Zachary Groff.
The incident began earlier in the day when TPD officers responded to a report of an auto burglary around 1:00 p.m. in the 100 block of S. Habana Ave. The victim reported seeing a white male suspect in his vehicle, who walked away carrying a backpack and skateboard after being confronted. The victim later realized his backpack, containing a loaded 9mm handgun, was missing from the car.
An alert was subsequently placed to officers with the suspect’s description and the theft of the firearm.
Arrest Attempt and Fatal Fleeing
Later that night, just after 8:00 p.m., TPD officers on patrol in MacDill Park (100 N. Ashley Dr.) detained a man believed to be the suspect in the earlier auto burglary and gun theft.
When officers asked the man, identified as Groff, for identification, they observed a large piece of crack cocaine fall to the ground as he reached into his pocket. Groff was then placed in custody on the narcotics charge, handcuffed, and seated on a park bench.
As the officers continued their investigation, Groff suddenly jumped from the bench and ran from the scene. One officer deployed a taser as Groff ran, causing him to fall into the roadway where he was struck by a Mercedes sedan.
WATCH: Warning, this video contains language.
Although officers immediately attempted life-saving measures, Groff was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin has been notified.
The adult male driver of the Mercedes, who showed no signs of impairment, remained at the scene and was fully cooperative with investigators.
Investigations Underway
The incident has triggered multiple investigations.
- Per policy, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) will lead the in-custody death investigation.
- The TPD Traffic Homicide Unit will investigate the crash itself.
- The TPD Professional Standards Bureau is also conducting an internal investigation to ensure the involved officers adhered to all departmental policies and procedures.
The officers involved have been identified as:
- Collin Parker (white male, 8 years with TPD)
- Kevin Koppe (white male, 5 years)
- Christopher Wilson (white male, 5 years)
- Hansel Sosa Rodriguez (Hispanic male, 4 years)
The TPD stated that none of the involved officers have any prior history of use-of-force discipline.
TPD Chief Lee Bercaw addressed the tragedy, stating, “This tragic incident, beginning with a stolen firearm, underscores the complex challenges officers face daily, particularly when illegal narcotics, criminal behavior, and mental health issues intersect. Our focus remains on community safety and a thorough, transparent investigation.”
READ: Former Tampa Police Officer Of New Port Richey Arrested For Using Forged Law Enforcement ID
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