U.S. Marshals have arrested a 17-year-old boy wanted in connection with the deaths of two teenagers whose bodies were discovered at an industrial property in downtown DeLand last week.
The two victims were found after authorities responded to reports of deceased individuals at the industrial lot. Investigators determined that both teenagers had suffered fatal gunshot wounds, prompting a homicide investigation.
The arrest marks a significant development in the case as investigators work to determine what happened before the teenagers were killed and how the victims came to be at the industrial property.
The U.S. Marshals Service assisted local law enforcement in locating and taking the teenage suspect into custody. Because the suspect is a minor, authorities may limit the amount of identifying information released publicly.
Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, interview witnesses and establish a timeline surrounding the deaths. Authorities are also expected to examine any available surveillance footage and other evidence that could help determine the circumstances of the killings.
The arrest does not by itself establish guilt, and the allegations against the teenager will proceed through the juvenile or criminal justice system as determined by prosecutors and the courts.
The deaths have left the families and friends of the two teenagers grieving, while the DeLand community awaits additional information from investigators.
Further details about the charges, court proceedings and circumstances surrounding the victims’ deaths are expected as the investigation continues.
