'We could all be next': Town terrified it being stalked by serial killer
A town is living in fear , believing is a serial killer is on the loose and stalking residents after a series of murders.
Three people have been found murdered in the space of 11 days in Seminole Heights in Tampa Bay, Florida, NBC News reports.
The three people have been identified as teacher Monica Hoffa, 32, student Benjamin Mitchell, 22, and Anthony Naiboa, 20.
Police say the only thing the deaths have in common was that the victims were shot with a gun while alone at night, but believe they could be related.
Southeast Seminole Heights Civic Association president Stan Lasater said local residents were “a little shaken and concerned that we could be the next victim”.
Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan said while the deaths were “terrorising” the neighbourhood, he urged residents to carry on with their lives as normal and not “to be held hostage”.
He also declined to say whether the deaths were the work of a lone serial killer.
Victim Benjamin Mitchell’s cousin Angelique DuPre said the anxiety had gotten to people and everyone was now locking their doors.
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"You shouldn't have to be afraid to stand outside at 7 o'clock at night because some crazy person just takes it upon themselves ... to take this person's life,” he said.
Residents have been defiant and shown unity despite the murders.
They marched through Seminole Heights on Friday, placing flowers and lighting candles at each of the three locations where the victims were killed.
Police have released CCTV footage of a man they allege is responsible, who was seen walking through the streets in a hooded t-shirt.
They have offered a US$25,000 reward for finding the person or persons responsible for the deaths.
