TITUSVILLE, Fla. (WESH) – Police in Florida have a person of interest in custody as they continue to investigate the death of a 72-year-old woman, whose remains and SUV were found burned, as a homicide.
Jesse Kirk, 72, was reported missing by her friend around 8:30 a.m. Tuesday when she didn’t show up for a morning walk. One hour later, Orange County firefighters found Kirk’s SUV burning near State Roads 520 and 50, roughly 20 miles from her Titusville condominium.
Around 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, police got a call about burned human remains seen near Haulover Canal. They were confirmed to be Kirk’s remains Thursday.
Police described Kirk as a humanitarian who was loved in the community and “had a gift to connect with anyone and everyone she met.” Her death is being investigated as a homicide.
“Our goal will be to continue to bring justice and closure to Ms. Kirk’s family at this incredibly difficult time,” said Detective Sgt. Bryan Nelson with Titusville Police.
David Barber, an ex-boyfriend of one of Kirk’s nieces, has been arrested in relation to the case. The 35-year-old is charged with taking Kirk’s SUV but not with her disappearance and death.
Police say Kirk’s SUV was seen moving on surveillance cameras around the city Monday night through the early morning hours on Tuesday. A witness said Barber was entering and exiting the vehicle overnight.
Investigators say Barber was spotted “acting suspicious” around Kirk’s condo about noon Tuesday. He was arrested on charges of loitering and prowling and grand theft auto.
At that time, police noticed he “had injuries consistent with high heat, burns and several scratches.” A witness also said Barber was seen walking away from the SUV fire.
Police say Barber is the only person of interest in the case at this point. Detectives are asking the public to contact them with any information they may have.
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