A man’s death outside a funeral home in Indian River County is now the focus of a homicide investigation, with one person currently in custody, according to the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office (IRCSO). The victim, who remains unidentified, was found dead after deputies discovered his body just after midnight on Monday.
Law enforcement officials believe the man was seeking shelter from the storms when he was fatally stabbed. The suspect, described as a person of interest and the suspected perpetrator, was questioned by detectives on Tuesday. The names of both the victim and the person in custody have not been released.
Sheriff Eric Flowers stated that the incident appears to be a case of homeless on homeless crime and that the motive seems to be theft. Detectives are conducting searches in areas they believe are connected to those involved in the homicide.
The body was discovered by a deputy who was on a routine patrol in Gifford near the 3900 to 4200 blocks of Old Dixie Highway. The victim was found partially covered by a blanket. Detectives and a medical examiner’s office investigator were called to the scene, initiating the ongoing investigation.
Flowers revealed that the theft occurred either before or after the murder and confirmed that both the victim and the suspect were transient in the area. While the specific details of the weapon used have not been disclosed, Flowers noted that the man killed was seeking refuge from the weather at the funeral home.
Commenting on the homeless population in the area, Flowers stated, We have a lot of transient people that travel that area of Old Dixie. Efforts are underway to locate a relative of the victim and inform them of his death, although this is proving challenging due to his homeless status.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. The IRCSO is working tirelessly to gather evidence and provide answers in this tragic incident.
In related news, residents in Martin County experienced a confirmed tornado that traveled nearly 8 miles, causing significant damage. Two individuals were also recently sentenced to prison for an armed robbery in Fort Pierce, while a Sebastian man received a lengthy prison term for drug distribution. The Treasure Coast region has seen its share of criminal activities, prompting law enforcement to remain vigilant in maintaining public safety.
Corey Arwood, a breaking news reporter for TCPalm, contributed to this report. For more updates on this developing investigation and other local news, follow @coreyarwood or contact Corey Arwood at corey.arwood@tcpalm.com or 772-978-2246.
