By Staff
TAMPA, FL – Tampa Police detectives are currently investigating a robbery that occurred on February 5, 2025, which is part of a troubling trend of similar incidents associated with the Seminole Hard Rock Casino. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.
According to reports including a search warrant filed by law enforcement, the incident unfolded at approximately 3:11 a.m. when the victim’s vehicle was struck by a suspect’s car on Hillsborough Avenue. The victim pulled over, after which the suspect exited their vehicle, wearing a mask and brandishing a firearm. The robber demanded money and stole $3,700 from the victim, funds the victim had reportedly won at the casino.
Tampa Police detectives reviewed surveillance footage from the casino, revealing that the victim had left the casino at 3:04 a.m. and was followed into the parking garage by what appeared to be a “spotter.” This individual was observed monitoring the victim’s vehicle before a Buick followed the victim’s car, as confirmed by traffic cameras.
The search warrant further stated, “It should be noted per Seminole Hard Rock law enforcement, this appears to be a pattern with victims in their casino who win a large jackpot amount and leave the hotel in a vehicle (getting struck and then robbed at gunpoint).” Investigators from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) noted that surveillance video indicated that victims had been monitored throughout the night after winning significant jackpots.
This latest robbery is part of a concerning series of incidents, with previous cases reported in August 2024 and December 2023. Although police are investigating these robberies in connection with big winners at the casino, they do not believe the latest case is related to the earlier incidents.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information related to these robberies to come forward.
For further updates, stay tuned.
