Joseph Michael Reese, a 45-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life in Tampa, Florida, on January 1, 2025. Reese, affectionately known as "Mike Reese," was a lifelong resident of Tampa, growing up in the Nuccio area and attending Hillsborough County Public Schools. He graduated from C. L. King Senior High School in 1998 and later pursued various jobs that utilized his skills in electronics, TV installations, and security.
He was well known for his ability to help family and friends with technical and protective needs. Reese was deeply devoted to his family, cherishing time spent with loved ones and enjoying hobbies such as basketball, puzzles, video games, movies, and fishing. He was also an avid fan of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
On the night of his death, Reese was outside the Tally Ho Bar Lounge & Grill on North 56th Street in Tampa when a shooting occurred. At approximately 1:43 a.m., the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office received a call reporting the incident. Deputies arrived at the scene to find Reese suffering from a gunshot wound. He was immediately transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The tragic event overshadowed what should have been a night of celebration for the new year.
Following an investigation, authorities arrested 39-year-old Curtis Christopher Williams in connection with Reese's death. Williams was taken into custody in Pinellas Park on January 3, 2025, with assistance from the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. He was booked into the Pinellas County Jail without incident and now faces multiple charges, including Murder in the First Degree Premeditated, Firearm - Great Bodily Harm/Death, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister praised the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies, emphasizing their commitment to justice and community safety.
Reese leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife, Shankia Williams Reese, his children, and numerous relatives and friends who cherished his presence. His funeral services were scheduled for January 18, 2025, at Bible-Based Fellowship Church of Temple Terrace. A visitation was held the day before at Ray Williams Funeral Home. His passing marks a devastating loss for his loved ones and the Tampa community.
