LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has identified the man they believe is responsible for a murder and armed robbery Thursday night.
A warrant has been issued for Alex Lopez, 25, of Wildwood for premeditated murder, armed robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and using a firearm during a felony.
Shortly after 9 p.m. Thursday, a man believed to be Lopez, entered Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, and shot Raied Shihadeh, 51. He was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said.
The suspect, now identified as Lopez, fled the scene and despite an extensive search by K9 units and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office aviation unit, they were unable to apprehend him, Walsh said.
“Officers and detectives have attempted to locate Lopez since he was identified as a suspect with negative results. We are now working with local, state, and federal authorities to locate and arrest Lopez,” Walsh said in a press release.
Lopez may be armed and dangerous and police are asking anyone with information on his whereabouts to call them at 352-787-2121 or call Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477.) Crimeline callers may be eligible for a reward.
