HERNANDO, Fla. (WFLA) — Two suspects have been arrested in connection with a murder investigation that happened in Hernando in 2021.

On September 9, 2021, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office Communications Division got a call about a car that seemed to have crashed in a forested zone on North Alabaster Drive.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a white 2020 Dodge pickup truck lodged in the woods near the roadway. The vehicle exhibited bullet holes on its exterior. Inside, they found the body of 20-year-old Marquel “Manny” Murray, who appeared to have suffered multiple gunshot injuries.

According to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, this week they arrested Thomas Paul Smith, 29, and Dmitry Williams Growdon, 29.

“Justice knows no time limits. Our thoughts are with the Murray family, who have been waiting for this day,” expressed CCSO Sgt. Thomas Dowling. “This arrest shows that perpetrators cannot hide indefinitely, and we are dedicated to ensuring that those responsible for acts of violence face consequences. We will maintain our collaboration with the Fifth Judicial Circuit to resolve this case.”

Smith and Growdon face charges of third-degree murder with a firearm, criminal conspiracy while armed, and possessing a firearm as convicted felons.

Anyone with more information on this case should reach out to the CCSO Major Case Section at 352-726-1121.