BRANDON, FL – THE Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has arrested two individuals in connection with a fatal shooting in Brandon, Florida, that occurred on March 9, 2026.
According to the sheriff’s office, detectives determined that James Sidney Llanos, 47, and his wife Lizeina Marie Cepeda, 39, were subletting their apartment on the 1800 block of Lake Chapman Drive to the victim, Travon Jackson, 30. On the afternoon of March 9, Llanos and Cepeda entered the apartment to evict Jackson. An altercation ensued, during which Llanos fatally shot Jackson.
James Sidney Llanos faces the following charges:
- Murder in the First Degree While Engaged in Burglary
- Armed Burglary of Dwelling With Assault or Battery (Dangerous Weapon or Explosive) (Firearm Great Bodily Harm/Death)
Lizeina Marie Cepeda faces the following charges:
- Murder in the First Degree While Engaged in Burglary
- Burglary of Occupied Dwelling With Assault or Battery
Sheriff Chad Chronister stated: “This was a senseless act of violence that cost a man his life. Our detectives worked quickly to piece together what happened and make sure those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
The investigation remains active, and the Public Affairs Office will release any further updates as they become available.
This incident follows initial reports of a homicide investigation at the location, where deputies responded to a disturbance call and discovered the victim deceased from an apparent gunshot wound. No additional details on the arrests or potential motives beyond the eviction-related altercation have been released at this time.
SOURCE: HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
