Florida Teenager Lured Online, Brutally Murdered by Couple
- National FOF Staff
Categories: Crime News , Florida , Online Dangers , Social Media , Teen Safety
St. Petersburg, FL - In a horrific turn of events, 16-year-old Miranda Corsette, who had been reported missing on February 24th, has been found to be the victim of a brutal murder.
Investigations revealed that Corsette met 35-year-old Steven Gress through a social media app. After an initial meeting on Valentine's Day, she returned to his residence the following day and remained there with Gress and his partner, 37-year-old Michelle Brandes.
Police believe a dispute over missing jewelry escalated, leading to Corsette's tragic death sometime between February 20th and 24th. Authorities allege that she was beaten and subsequently killed. Her body was then transported to a home in Largo, Florida, where it is believed she was dismembered before being disposed of in a dumpster in Hillsborough County.
Gress and Brandes have been arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Gress also faces kidnapping charges.
St. Petersburg Police are actively investigating this gruesome crime and are working to recover Corsette's remains. Further charges may be forthcoming.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk online and the importance of caution when interacting with strangers through social media platforms.