Statewide manhunt underway for Harlem Heights murder suspect

Published: Updated:
Timothy Dortch
Timothy Dortch, 24, sentence to life in prison on Monday afternoon.

FORT MYERS, Fla.- A man accused of gunning down a father of six during broad daylight in Harlem Heights earlier this month has been identified, Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers said.

Timothy Dortch, Jr., 24, is wanted in connection to the May 11 murder of 41-year-old Tyrone Jason Morse.

Morse was killed during a shooting at the 4700 block of Duera Mae Drive. Multiple witnesses saw Dortch leave the area shortly after the shooting, officials said.

Thursday night, Dortch was spotted in the Orlando area, driving a stolen brown four door Nissan Altima.

“We know that the residents of the Harlem Heights community, as well as Mr. Morse’s family and friends, want justice to be served,” said Trish Routte, Crime Stoppers coordinator. “Any small piece of information that can help investigators track Dortch down, regardless of where he may be, is of paramount importance.”

Dortch has been arrested previously as an adult for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. During his teenage years, he was charged with attempted second degree murder in 2009, as well as grand theft auto in 2008, officials said.

Once arrested, Dortch is facing charges for second degree murder with a firearm, shooting into an occupied vehicle and two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Dortch is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477).  All callers will remain anonymous and will be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.  Tips may also be made online at www.swflcrimestoppers.org or by texting a tip to CRIMES (274637) Keyword: REWARD.

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