Man Arrested After Making ‘Snow Angels’ to Hide from Deputies in Tampa Construction Site

Accident – Death – Obituary News : TAMPA, Florida (WJW) – While Tampa may not have had a white Christmas this year, one man decided to create his own version of “snow angels” while evading sheriff’s deputies. The incident took place on Christmas Eve after deputies responded to a one-vehicle crash at the intersection of E. Bearss Avenue and N. Nebraska Avenue around 7 p.m.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, before deputies could gather the driver’s information, the individual fled the scene, hopping over a fence and disappearing into a nearby construction site. However, the suspect’s attempt to hide from the authorities was short-lived.

The sheriff’s department’s aviation unit spotted the suspect trying to conceal himself from deputies. In a video captured by the unit, the man can be seen lying in a pit, using his cell phone, and even engaging in a playful gesture resembling “dirt angels.” It appears that the suspect was determined to avoid capture by any means necessary.

Despite his efforts, the suspect’s luck eventually ran out. He attempted to escape once again, but this time, he was apprehended by three sheriff’s deputies and a K-9 unit. The authorities wasted no time in making the arrest.

In a Facebook post, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office expressed their gratitude towards their aviation unit, saying, “Thanks to our aviation unit, who didn’t see a big jolly man in red on Christmas Eve but instead found the man playing in dirt.” The post highlighted the crucial role played by the aviation unit in the suspect’s capture.

The suspect has been identified as 34-year-old Eliezer Armando Reyes Rios. He now faces multiple charges, including leaving the scene of a crash, driving with a canceled, suspended or revoked license, and trespassing on a construction site. It remains to be seen what consequences he will face for his attempted escape and subsequent arrest.

This incident serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies are always vigilant, even during the holiday season. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office demonstrated their dedication to ensuring the safety of the community by swiftly apprehending the suspect. Their use of aerial surveillance technology played a crucial role in the successful resolution of this case.

In conclusion, while Tampa may not have experienced a white Christmas, one man’s attempt to evade capture by hiding in a construction site and making “dirt angels” was quickly foiled by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The suspect’s actions resulted in multiple charges and his eventual arrest. This incident serves as a testament to the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies and their commitment to keeping the community safe, even during the holiday season..