Lakeland police have announced multiple arrests and new murder charges in connection with a 2020 Christmas Eve shooting that killed a 70-year-old grandmother and injured three members of her family.

Investigation and Arrests

According to Lakeland Police Chief Sam Taylor, a Polk County grand jury returned indictments against three men in connection with the December 24, 2020, shooting. Taqiy Lewis, 29, was indicted on one count of first-degree murder and three counts of attempted first-degree murder. Lewis is already serving a 30-year federal prison sentence for firearms charges connected to the case.

Keovion Durham was also indicted and arrested on July 23, 2026, on a charge of attempted first-degree murder. John Spates was arrested on July 23, 2026, on a charge of manslaughter in the death of the grandmother, Maebelle Cooper.

Murder Suspect at Large

Investigators are still searching for Carlos Morris, who is wanted on a warrant for attempted first-degree murder. Morris was last known to be living in the Lakeland area and is believed to have family in the community. Anyone with information about Morris’ whereabouts is urged to contact the Lakeland Police Department.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.