Reward Offered for Information Related to 2020 Christmas Eve Homicide
LAKELAND, FL (December 22, 2021) - The Lakeland Police Department continues to seek information related to a homicide that occurred during the evening of December 24, 2020. In partnership with Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida, a reward of up to $5,000 is being offered to anyone with information that leads to an arrest in the shooting death of 70-year-old Lakeland resident Maebelle Cooper. (Ms. Cooper's family has given permission for her name to be released.)
On December 24, 2020, Maebelle Cooper was shot and killed shortly after 5:40 p.m. outside of a residence in the 1500 block of Amos Avenue. Her senseless death occurred following a disturbance that she was not involved in. Prior to the shooting, an altercation began in the area of Simpson Park, which carried over to the residence at the Amos Avenue location. Along with Ms. Cooper, three additional family members sustained injuries from the shooting.
Over the past 12 months, detectives have investigated numerous leads and continued to gather evidence. They continue to seek the public's help in obtaining any additional information to assist in arresting the person(s) responsible. No tip is too small.
Maebelle Cooper was a loving mother and grandmother tragically taken from her family due to senseless violence. She was an innocent victim. Ms. Cooper and her family deserve for the person(s) responsible to be held accountable.
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To remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward, contact Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida:
- Call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477)
- From your cell phone, dial **TIPS
- Or visit the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on "Submit A Tip,"
- Or download the free "P3tips" app on your smartphone or tablet.
Tipsters will always remain anonymous when sending a tip through Crime Stoppers and could be eligible for a cash reward if the information leads to an arrest.