TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A suspect is facing charges in connection with a Tuesday evening homicide in Manatee County, authorities said.
The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office said Ruben Pioquinto, 23, was taken into custody Wednesday morning after he and the victim were involved in an altercation at a Circle K on 30th Avenue E. in Bradenton.
Deputies said the two had driven to the store along with a 15 year old when an argument ensued. Pioquinto allegedly shot the victim at point-blank range, then drove their body to a remote area in Palmetto and dumped it in on the side of the road.
Then, Pioquinto and the 15 year old returned to their home in Bradenton.
Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells said Pioquinto threatened to kill the 15 year old witness if he told anyone about the shooting.
A day later, deputies went to the home after getting calls from concerned family members and spoke with the witness who let them know what happened.
“This is another senseless cold-blooded killing,” Sheriff Wells said. “My heart goes out to this family and also to this young witness who was sitting in the car when this took place. He has to be traumatized.”
Deputies said alcohol may have played a factor. It’s unclear what charges Pioquinto faces at this time.
This is a developing story. Stay up to date on the latest from News Channel 8 on-air and on the go with the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile app.
