Tampa Police Make Arrest in Dec 9 Homicide

TAMPA, FL (December 23, 2025) - - Tampa Police have arrested the suspect in the murder of 34-year-old James McClendon that occurred earlier this month.

"It is our hope that this arrest will allow the family and friends of James McClendon to begin the healing process as they navigate this tragic loss,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Our detectives worked tirelessly to ensure that the person responsible will be held accountable for his actions."

The investigation began on December 9, 2025, following a missing person report for James McClendon. Police recovered his rental vehicle, abandoned, in the 3500 block of E. 27th Ave. While searching the vehicle, they collected evidence including a spent 9mm shell casing. On December 11, officers followed investigative leads to an empty lot, where they discovered McClendon’s body. The Medical Examiner determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound.

As detectives moved forward, they were able to confirm that McClendon drove to a gas station in the 2900 block of N. 50th St earlier that evening. There, he picked up a passenger, later identified as 17-year-old Keshon Moore (black male, 3/6/2008), who was wearing distinct clothing and bright blue footwear. A court-authorized search of Moore’s home uncovered additional evidence, including a 9mm shell casing, further linking Moore to the murder.

On December 23, just after 2:00 pm, Tampa Police located Moore near Rowlett Park. He was arrested without incident and charged with Murder. He was transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center.