Chief of Police
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(727) 893-7550
police.stpete.org
NEWS RELEASE
Report number: 2026-021685
Update: Suspect in Custody
Release updated on 07-02-26 at 11:30 AM
The suspect in Tuesday's homicide is now in custody.
Jason Blythe (43) was arrested yesterday in Tampa on unrelated charges.
Blythe will be formally charged with the homicide that occurred in St. Petersburg on Tuesday, June 30th. Detectives say he shot to death an 86-year-old man and the family dog in the 5800 block of 11th Street South. The motive is still unclear, but the victim and suspect were acquainted.
Once detectives and the State Attorney's Office complete filing the arrest warrant, Blythe will be transported to the Pinellas County Jail to face charges of 1st-degree homicide, animal cruelty, and felon in possession of a firearm.
Blythe is currently being held without bond in Hillsborough County for a warrant out of Tifton County, Georgia, for VOP - Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer and Fleeing and Eluding.
Update: Homicide investigation
Release updated on 07-01-26 at 8:23 AM
Detectives are investigating the death of an 86-year-old man who lives in the area of 5800 block of 11th St. S.
The suspect also killed a family member's dog that was with the victim.
This is an isolated incident, and a person of interest has been identified, and detectives are actively investigating.
Anyone with additional information on this case should call St. Petersburg Police at 727-893-7780 or text SPPD + your tip to TIP411.
Homicide investigation
Release posted on 06-30-26 at 7:20 PM
Police investigators are at the scene of a homicide in the 5800 block of 11th St. S.
The victim was found deceased and foul play is suspected.
No additional information that could identify the victim can be released.
No suspect is in custody.
St. Petersburg Police Media Relations - (727) 893-7550
YOLANDA FERNANDEZ - Public Information Officer