Man Accused Of Killing Woman After Argument Found Hiding In Bushes: Police

Tampa, Florida -- A 47-year-old man in Florida has been arrested in connection to the discovery of a dead woman's body early Saturday morning, police said.

The suspect, identified as Matthew Terry, was charged with first-degree murder in the death of the victim, whose name and age have not been disclosed, WFLA reported.

Deputies with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office were called to Kiteridge Drive in Lithia, a suburb of Tampa, Florida, early Saturday after getting a report of a person down.

They found a dead woman whose body had signs of severe trauma to her upper torso, the sheriff’s office said.

Deputies said they learned that Terry and the victim had an argument that night while they were at The Landing Bar & Grill in Valrico — around three miles away from where her body was found.

Detectives said Terry fled the crime scene and was found hiding in overgrown brush and trees off of Lithia Pinecrest Road.

Terry was brought to Tampa General Hospital and treated for lacerations sustained during the altercation with the deceased, Tampa Bay Times reported.

Terry and the victim were “known to each other,” authorities said.

The incident was an isolated one that doesn’t present a danger to the public, according to police.

“Deputies who arrived at this horrific scene overnight were able to identify the suspect and worked quickly to detain him,” Sheriff Chad Chronister was quoted as saying by Tampa Bay Times. “This was a violent and isolated incident and this suspect is now facing a first-degree murder charge for his actions. Our hearts are with the victim, and those who are impacted by this senseless loss.”

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office did not release the woman's identity, citing Marsy’s Law, which prevents the disclosure of the names of victims in crimes.

Further details on the case have yet to be released with the investigation ongoing.

Deputies are seeking help from the public for any additional information on the homicide. Those who may have useful information are encouraged to call the HCSO at 813-247-8200.