Tampa Man Faces Charges for Alleged Attempt to Seduce Teen Daughter Prior to Shooting Rampage
On Thursday, Michael Banks, 42, appeared in a Tampa courtroom, charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and more, following a violent incident on Wednesday.
The shooting occurred at a residence on North 23rd Street, near East Linebaugh Street, where Banks is accused of killing one woman and injuring two others before exchanging gunfire with the police.
The court documents filed by the state attorney’s office shed light on the disturbing motive behind the attack. Banks, allegedly overhearing discussions about forcing him to move out due to concerns about his relationship with his daughter, opened fire on the three victims.
The wounded victims, identified as Banks’ mother and daughter, managed to escape the home and notify the Tampa police. Tragically, another woman, a friend of Banks’ mother, was found dead inside the residence.
Banks confessed to authorities that he had written a letter to his daughter, urging her to enter into a relationship with him. Feeling betrayed and upset when the women discussed leaving with his daughter, Banks resorted to violence.
Tampa Gripped by Tragedy
The confrontation escalated when Banks fired shots at officers with a muzzle-loaded revolver as they arrived at the scene. Tampa police officer Darren Gibson, 32, returned fire but did not injure Banks. Following the exchange, Banks surrendered and was taken into custody.
In response to the heinous nature of the crime and Banks’ criminal history, Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez filed a motion on Thursday, seeking pretrial detention and the denial of bond for Banks.
A judge granted this request, emphasizing the severity of the charges and the potential danger Banks poses to the community.
Banks is scheduled to return to court on January 24 for a pretrial detention hearing. The case has sent shockwaves through the Tampa community, prompting reflection on the tragic consequences of domestic disputes turned deadly.
