ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. — Investigators in St. Lucie County have released a new photo of a person of interest they want to question about a man found dead inside a burned home in Fort Pierce.
WATCH BELOW: 'Garcia has a violent history and tendencies,' Sheriff Richard Del Toro says
It's been three weeks since WPTV first told you about the fire that occurred on South Market Avenue. Investigators said 51-year-old Antwan Daniels died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head and smoke inhalation after the residence was intentionally set on fire following the attack. Authorities said they're still following leads to track down the person responsible.
The fire happened on Nov. 28 along South Market Avenue in Fort Pierce.
Arkel Garcia, 31, was identified as a person of interest and is now wanted for questioning based on evidence recovered at the crime scene and witness interviews. They believe Garcia is still in Florida.
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Sheriff Richard Del Toro said Garcia has tattoos all over his face and body, but he has changed his appearance in recent weeks to be clean shaven with a shorter haircut. Garcia is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall with black hair and brown eyes.
"Garcia should be considered armed and dangerous and has a violent history and tendencies," Del Toro said. "Members of the public are strongly advised not to approach him and to call 911, if they see Mr. Garcia."
Garcia is known to go by the nicknames “Kel” or “R-Kel” and uses the alias “Arkel Hardie.”
The sheriff said Garcia is also wanted for a homicide and parole violation in Philadelphia stemming from his release from prison in 2024. The St. Lucie County County Sheriff's Office said it is working with Philadelphia authorities to locate and apprehend Garcia.
He was last seen on Nov. 29 in front of the Bentonwood Mobile Home Park in the 6100 block of US Highway 1 in Fort Pierce. Investigators have learned that Garcia was given a ride on the same day, and was dropped off in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in the early evening hours.
Authorities believe Garcia may be attempting to return to the Philadelphia area by traveling via commercial bus.
Anyone with information regarding Garcia’s whereabouts is urged to contact law enforcement immediately. Tipsters may remain anonymous by calling 1-800-273-8477 or by submitting a tip through the Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers website at www.tcwatch.org
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Region St Lucie County
Man, 51, identified as victim found inside burned St. Lucie County home
Region St Lucie County
