Fort Myers police had a suspect in custody within 18 hours of a Sunday morning slaying, but understanding what happened may take a bit longer. Their 15-year-old suspect, Micqual Reddick of Miami, remains an enigma. Quiet and respectful to elders, but with a quick temper that could suddenly erupt into violence, acquaintances said.
Miami authorities also have an active warrant charging him with aggravated battery, according to Lee County sheriff's records. Fort Myers police believe drugs are the link between Reddick and his alleged victim, Peter Hopkins, 50, of Fort Myers. They did not elaborate.
Reddick, also known as Castro to his friends in Fort Myers, was picked up Sunday night at 2418 Morado St., an apartment where he stayed, Fort Myers police spokeswoman Shelly Flynn said. A gun was recovered there, but police don't know whether it's the murder weapon, Det.
Sgt. Jen Soto said. Reddick was turned over to the Department of Juvenile Justice on Monday, according to Lee County Sheriff's Office records.
A 17-year-old at that address also was questioned by police but has not been charged in the slaying, Soto added. Police wouldn't say much about the arrest, but Lucy Campbell, 80, said Reddick was a frequent guest in her apartment. Reddick listed Miami as his home but was often in Fort Myers, Campbell said.
He would stay at her apartment for two or three days at a time and then drop from sight for two or three weeks, she added. "That boy came here about 9 or 9:30 (Saturday night) and asked if he could lay down. I let him sleep on the floor," she said.
"I don't know if he left or not.
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