Justice for Suni Bell: 5 men arrested in connection with shooting death of 4-year-old Tampa girl

TAMPA, Fla. - Five men were arrested by US Marshals for the shooting that killed 4-year-old Suni Bell, providing the first step in bringing justice for a family who lost their ‘princess’ on August 22, 2021.

The Tampa Police Department and Hillsborough State Attorney's Office announced the arrest of Zvante Sampson, 30, Quandarious Hammond, 28, James Denson, 24, Jaylin Bedward, 22, and Andrew Thompson, 22 – all facing charges of attempted first-degree murder of another victim, conspiracy to commit murder, and shooting into a vehicle.

Indicted in the shooting that killed Suni Bell are James Denson, 24; Andrew Thompson, 22; Zvante Sampson, 30; Quandarious Hammond, 28; and Jaylin Bedward, 22.

Hammond and Sampson each also face a charge of attempted murder on a third victim. Hammond, Thompson, and Denson each face an additional charge of discharging a firearm from a vehicle in public. 

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The shooting happened the night of August 22. Suni was riding in the back seat of a car driving down Hillsborough Avenue when shots were fired. At the time, police said they believed the shooting was targeted.

In the days and weeks after Suni's death, her family made public pleas for anyone with information to come forward. Nearly $10,000 in reward money was also offered for tips leading to arrests in the case.

Tampa police say they are still investigating the case and believe there may be others who were involved. Anyone with information is asked to contact CrimeStoppers of Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-TIPS. Tips may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.