Crime & Safety

Video Details Capture of USF Home Invasion, Sexual Assault Suspect

WFLA-TV News Channel 8 captured the car chase and shootout on film.

The final moments of Charlie Christopher Bates's attempt to flee from police were captured on film by WFLA-TV News Channel 8 cameras.

Bates, 24, was wanted in connection with a series of home invasions and sexual assaults that took place in the University of South Florida area Sept. 5. Bates was identified as a suspect in the case through DNA evidence found at a crime scene, Tampa police said.

The search for Bates took place overnight and throughout the morning of Sept. 6. The manhunt raised flags at 18 local schools, which were placed on a modified lockdown as police sought their suspect.

Law enforcement officers eventually caught up with Bates Friday afternoon at U.S. 301 and Interstate 4. He led them on a chase and fired upon officers before being shot himself. Bates later died from his injuries, TBO reported.

See also:


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.