FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — A homicide investigation that began after a man was found dead inside a tent encampment in Fort Pierce has led to the arrest of a 30-year-old homeless man, according to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to the 2600 block of Rolyat Street on May 25, in reference to a deceased individual discovered inside a tent encampment. The death was ruled the death a homicide by the medical examiner.

The Criminal Investigations Division conducted witness interviews and reviewed surveillance footage as they worked to identify and locate the suspect.

Investigators developed probable cause to arrest Zachary Ryan Edwards, 30, for fraudulent misuse of an EBT card.

Body found in St. Lucie tent encampment ruled homicide, deputies searching for man

On Friday at about 10:15 p.m., deputies located Edwards in the 400 block of Brown Court. He was taken into custody without incident.

As the investigation continued, detectives developed additional evidence establishing probable cause that Edwards was responsible for the homicide, according to detectives.

The victim was identified as Carl Leonard Smith, 63, of Fort Pierce.

Edwards has been charged with first-degree murder and fraud involving fraudulent misuse of an EBT card.

He is being held at the St. Lucie County Jail.

This arrest is the result of relentless teamwork and coordination among our Patrol Operations Bureau, Criminal Investigations Division, Special Investigations Division, Crime Scene Unit, and supporting personnel,” said St. Lucie County Sheriff Richard Del Toro. “I commend the dedication and professionalism of everyone involved in bringing this case to a swift resolution. While an arrest has been made, our thoughts and prayers remain with the family and loved ones of Carl Smith as they mourn this tragic loss. We remain committed to seeking justice on their behalf.

The investigation remains active.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at (772) 462-3230 or email CrimeInfo@stluciesheriff.gov.