Suspect Arrested in 25-Year-Old St. Lucie County Double Homicide Case

ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. — A suspect has been arrested nearly 25 years after a couple was killed at a rural St. Lucie County home, authorities announced Friday. The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in a case that had remained unsolved for decades.

The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as John Doe, 52, who was taken into custody Thursday following an extensive investigation. Doe is accused of fatally shooting the couple during a home invasion in 2000. The victims, whose names have not been released, were found dead in their residence after neighbors reported suspicious activity.

“This arrest is the result of relentless work by our detectives and advancements in forensic technology,” said Sheriff Ken Mascara during a press conference. “We never gave up on seeking justice for the victims and their families.”

Authorities credited DNA evidence and new investigative techniques with helping to identify Doe as a suspect. The case had previously gone cold due to a lack of leads and limited forensic capabilities at the time of the crime.

Doe is being held without bond at the St. Lucie County Jail and faces two counts of first-degree murder. His arraignment is scheduled for next week.

Meanwhile, in unrelated news, the owner of a popular Palm Beach County pizzeria faces a felony charge for allegedly failing to pay more than $100,000 in state sales tax revenue. The Florida Department of Revenue issued a warrant for the arrest of the business owner, who has not yet been publicly identified.

In Fort Pierce, a technical glitch delayed the presentation of a shortlist of potential candidates to city commissioners. The meeting, originally scheduled for Thursday evening, has been rescheduled for next week.

Additionally, two proposals for community development projects have been submitted to the Vero Beach City Council by ClearPath and The Blue at Vero Beach. The proposals aim to address local infrastructure and housing needs.

In lighter news, the South Florida Fair kicked off this week with its theme, “Imagine the Future,” showcasing holograms, artificial intelligence, and interactive exhibits. The fair, which runs through Jan. 30, is expected to draw thousands of visitors.