Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Discovery in Saint Cloud, Florida
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that 13-year-old Madeline Soto, who went missing earlier this week, has been found dead. The body of the young girl was discovered off Hickory Tree Road in Osceola County on Friday afternoon, bringing a devastating end to the search for her.
Confident in the Investigation
During a press conference on Friday, Orange County Sheriff John Mina expressed confidence in the investigation, stating that detectives believe Madeline Soto was allegedly killed by her mother’s boyfriend, Stephan Sterns. The authorities are working tirelessly to gather evidence and piece together the events leading to the tragic outcome.
Intensive Search Efforts
On the day of the discovery, a multi-agency search operation was in full swing near Nolte Road in St. Cloud. Teams from St. Cloud police, Kissimmee police, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office joined forces to comb through the area in a bid to find Madeline Soto.
Timeline of Events
Deputies revealed that Madeline Soto was never dropped off at Hunter’s Creek Middle School on Monday morning, indicating that she was already deceased at that time. The investigation suggests that Sterns moved her body in the early morning hours of that fateful day after allegedly killing her in Kissimmee.
Sterns’ Alleged Actions
Video evidence shows Sterns disposing of items in a dumpster at a Kissimmee apartment complex, which were later identified as Madeline Soto’s belongings. Sterns was subsequently arrested on charges of sexual battery and possession of child sexual abuse material, shedding light on a disturbing aspect of the case.
Ongoing Investigation
As Sterns remains in custody, authorities continue to gather information and build a case against him. The case has now transitioned into a homicide investigation, with the Kissimmee Police Department taking the lead in unravelling the events that led to Madeline Soto’s tragic demise.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Madeline Soto during this difficult time. The community stands united in seeking justice for the young girl and ensuring that those responsible for her untimely death are held accountable.
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