Death threats targeted at funeral attendees of a young man murdered at a party in Riverview a few weeks ago, prompted additional security this past weekend. Security was increased at both the wake and funeral of Craig Thompson, Jr.

Police presence was visible on Friday evening for Thompson’s wake at Aikens Funeral, as well as for his funeral on Saturday.

When contacted by the Sentinel, his father, Craig Thompson, Sr., stated that he had heard about the threats, but didn’t know who made them or why. He stated that he didn’t receive any threats himself.

“I wasn’t worried because there were threats made at Iesha’s (Washington) funeral, too. It’s really sad because we were preparing for the funeral. We are in mourning. To do something like that is ridiculous and didn’t make any sense. I think to do something like that was a cowardice act,” Thompson said.

He further said that he had gone for the family viewing earlier in the day and noticed that a K9 unit was stationed on North Bay Street near the funeral home and another unit was parked across the street. Two deputies were inside of the funeral home for the wake.

Thompson said a trust fund has already been established for his unborn grandchild and the family is in the process of establishing another.

Earlier this month, Ms. Washington and Mr. Thompson were both killed after attending a party at a clubhouse at 5020 Highway 41 South, in Riverview, owned by the Local 439 of the International Chemical Workers Union. [private]

Deputies said unidentified suspects began shooting after a fight broke out and one the attendees was ordered to leave by security. A short time later, two men allegedly began shooting into the crowd.

The body of Ms. Washington, 18, was discovered on the roadway. Thompson had been shot as well and died at Tampa General Hospital.

Detectives arrested 21-year-old Tyrell Sidney Bragg and charged him with second-degree murder in the death of Ms. Washington. Police also recovered a .380 handgun believed to be the murder weapon.

Police believe a second shooter was responsible for Thompson’s death because of shell casing from a different type weapon. However, no other suspects have been arrested. The investigation is continuing. [/private]

City Editor Iris B. Holton can be contacted at (813) 248-1921; or emailed at iholton@flsentinel.com.