Tampa Police Arrest Robbery Suspect Who Injured 82-Year-Old Woman

TAMPA, FL. (MAY 5, 2026) - - Following a swift investigation, Tampa Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the May 1st robbery of an 82-year-old woman.

"The outstanding investigation, community assistance, and pro-active policing that led to a quick arrest in this case is a testament to the strength of our city," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "It should be clear that in Tampa we all work together to hold criminals accountable, especially those who would foolishly choose to target our neighbors."

On Friday evening, May 1, 2026, the resident was waiting near a bus stop at W. Hillsborough Ave and N. Habana Ave when she was attacked and robbed. The assault caused her to lose consciousness. Thankfully, she is now home continuing to recover from her injuries.

The investigation moved forward quickly thanks to a community member who witnessed the event and provided detectives with vital video footage captured on his Tesla. During the subsequent investigation, it was learned that the suspect matched the description of a person involved in a bicycle theft in the area of N. Florida Ave and E. Columbus Dr. that occurred earlier on the same day of the assault and robbery.

While patrolling the area focused on gathering leads and locating the suspect, officers spotted him on Tuesday afternoon near Nebraska Ave. The suspect, now identified 57-year-old Joseph Patrick Wren (white male, 8/22/1969), was taken into custody without incident at N. Nebraska Ave and E. Annie St.

He has been charged with Robbery. Arrest photo is not yet available.