ICYMI: Heartbreaking Horror—Teen Girl from Florida KILLED by Social Media Predator!
A teenage girl was killed after meeting a 35-year-old Florida man online. Police are now on the hunt for his partner. 🌐 #News #StPetersburgFL #Florida #Crime
ST. PETERSBURG, FL — A 16-year-old girl, Miranda Corsette, was allegedly killed by a Florida man she met through a social media app, according to the St. Petersburg Police Department. The suspect, 35-year-old Steven Gress, is now in custody, facing charges related to her kidnapping and disappearance. Authorities are still searching for Gress’s domestic partner, 37-year-old Michelle Brandes, as the investigation continues.
Fatal Encounter Began Online
Miranda, a homeschooled teenager living with her grandmother, first connected with Gress on February 14 via a social media platform.
The following day, February 15, she went to Gress’s home on 27th Avenue North in St. Petersburg, where she stayed with Gress and Brandes.
Five days later, on February 20, a dispute broke out over missing jewelry. During this altercation, Miranda was beaten. Police say she was killed sometime between February 20 and February 24.
Body Moved and Investigation Launched
Miranda was reported missing to Gulfport Police on February 24 by her grandmother.
Evidence shows that Gress later loaded her body into a car and drove it to a house on Mallory Drive in Largo. There, authorities believe the body was dismembered. The remains were then transported to Hillsborough County and discarded in a dumpster at on 14th Avenue SE in Ruskin.
Detectives have yet to recover Miranda’s remains.
A witness came forward with key information about Miranda’s case on Thursday, aiding the investigation. Gress was arrested on March 5, initially on charges of drug possession and pointing a harpoon at Brandes.
By Thursday, police had enough evidence to charge him with Miranda’s kidnapping and disappearance. He remains in custody.
Police Urge Caution with Social Media
During a press conference on Friday, St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway addressed the tragic case.
He called on parents to keep a close eye on their children’s social media use and advised kids to tell their parents about any contacts who aren’t family members.
The police continue their efforts to locate Michelle Brandes, who lived with Gress at the time of the killing.
Ongoing Search for Answers
Authorities are asking the public for help in finding Brandes. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact the St. Petersburg Police Department at 727-893-7780.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to uncover the full details of Miranda’s death and recover her remains.
Miranda Corsette’s life, cut short at 16, leaves a void for her grandmother and all who knew her, their grief a heavy burden in this tragic case. The St. Petersburg community stands together, shaken by the loss, yet resolute in seeking justice for a young girl taken too soon. As the investigation presses on, there’s a quiet strength in knowing that every step forward brings the promise of answers and healing for those left behind. — Jack and Kitty Norton, Founders and Editors
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Florida
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