Sexual Assault, Home Invasion Suspect Dies from Injuries

Update (Friday, 5:03 p.m.): Charles Christopher Bates died from injuries at 1:21 p.m. Sept. 6 following a shootout with law enforcement officers, according to TBO.com.

Update (Friday, 12:40 p.m.): Charlie Christopher Bates has been captured on U.S. 301, just north of Interstate 4, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. He was spotted in a vehicle and shot at least once. No law enforcement officers were injured. Stay with Patch for further updates as they become available.

Earlier:
Tampa Police Department detectives have identified a possible suspect in the sexual battery, armed home invasion spree that took place overnight Sept. 5. 

Charlie Christopher Bates, 24, was connected to an armed home invasion and attempted sexual battery that took place within the city limits Thursday night, according to an alert from the police department. Bates was linked to the crime through DNA evidence, the alert said.   

Bates is also believed to be the suspect in several other attacks that took place Thursday night that are under investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.   

He is described as a black male who stands 5 feet, 9 inches in height. He has tied-back dreadlocks, a medium complexion and was last seen wearing a black tank top, jeans and boots. He has multiple tattoos on his arms and neck.

As the search for Bates continues, 18 schools in the North Tampa and New Tampa areas remain on modified lockdown.   

Tampa police are asking anyone who has seen Bates to call the department at 813-231-6130.   

Stay with Temple Terrace Patch for updates as they become available.   

See also: 

• 18 Schools on Modified Lockdown as Search for Armed Man Continues
• School Security Elevated as Search for Armed Man Continues