ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office (SLCSO) announced a homicide investigation has been launched after body was found inside a fire-damaged home in Fort Pierce.
The SLCSO reports that around 8:10pm Saturday, Patrol Operations Bureau deputies and St. Lucie County Fire District (SLCFD) personnel responded to a reported structure fire in the 600 block of S. Market Avenue.
Officials say upon arrival, fire crews worked to suppress the fire, while deputies secured the area and provided scene support. Once St. Lucie County Fire Rescue extinguished the fire and made entry into the residence, a body was found dead inside.
The SLCSO says a search warrant was executed at the residence. During the initial examination, it was determined the victim had suffered multiple gunshot wounds in addition to other injuries, the cause of which remains under investigation.
Officials say the State Fire Investigator, who also arrived on scene, assisted with the arson-related components of the investigation.
The victim has been identified; however, the release of the person’s name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
This remains an active and ongoing homicide investigation.
CBS12 News will work to get more answers and keep you updated on air and online as we learn more pending the continuing investigative process.
Anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area or has information related to this incident is urged to contact the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office at 772-462-7300.