Charges were upgraded against a suspect following a recent Central Florida homicide investigation.
A Hillsborough County man is now facing a murder charge following a homicide investigation in Valrico near Tampa.
Earlier this month, following an autopsy conducted by the Medical Examiner’s Office, the charge against 48-year-old Michael Zammiello has been upgraded to Pre-Meditated First-Degree Murder with a Firearm.
This month, HCSO’s Communication Center received a call from Michael Zammiello reporting an accidental injury.
When deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 4200 block of Amber Ridge Lane in Valrico, they found 73-year-old Shirley St. Pearre with a gunshot wound to her head. She was transported to a local hospital but later pronounced deceased.
During an interview with Zammiello, he admitted to detectives he accidentally shot St. Pearre inside the home. He was taken into custody without incident and was facing one count of Manslaughter with a Weapon before charges were upgraded.
“This was a senseless act of violence, and our detectives have worked tirelessly to ensure justice is served,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The evidence uncovered in this investigation leaves no doubt about the suspect’s intent, and we will do everything in our power to hold him accountable for this horrific crime.”
This is an ongoing investigation, according to local law enforcement.
