Wanted murder suspect arrested in Alabama after fleeing Hillsborough County: sheriff

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A man accused of selling drugs to 23-year-old, which led to their death, was arrested in Alabama Tuesday after he fled Hillsborough County, authorities announced.

Altwain Carlise, 29, was caught in Enterprise, Alabama around 7 a.m. after the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force tracked him down.

Carlise was wanted for his involvement in selling drugs that led to the fatal overdose of a 23-year-old man on Aug. 1, 2023, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said.

The 29-year-old is being held in the Coffee County Jail on the following charges:

• Murder in the first degree which resulted from the unlawful distribution of a controlled substance
• Trafficking fentanyl
• Delivery of cocaine
• Possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell

He is also facing additional drug trafficking charges in Alabama.

According to HCSO, Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay gave detectives several tips, one of which led directly to Carlise’s arrest.

“I want to commend the dedication and tireless efforts of our Opioid Overdose Investigation Section. Their relentless pursuit of justice and commitment to addressing the opioid crisis in our community have been nothing short of exemplary,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “I am grateful to the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force. Their assistance in arresting this suspect has been instrumental in ensuring that justice is served.”

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