A 32-year-old Sarasota man is currently held without bond, facing charges of murder and burglary following a fatal incident that occurred on a Sunday morning at a local apartment complex.
Detectives arrested Josue Zepeda-Urbina on November 2 in connection with the death of a 31-year-old woman at the Applegate Apartments, located at 1500 N. Lockwood Ridge Road.
Officers responded to a 911 call at approximately 4 a.m. on November 1, reporting an unresponsive woman inside one of the units. Personnel from the Sarasota County Fire Department arrived shortly thereafter and pronounced the woman dead at approximately 4:30 a.m.
Investigators determined that Zepeda-Urbina entered the residence without authorization while other individuals were present inside. As a result of that unlawful entry, he faces three felony counts of burglary of an occupied dwelling in addition to the murder charge. Authorities noted that the suspect and the victim were acquainted and characterized the incident as an isolated occurrence.
A witness who knew both individuals assisted detectives in identifying Zepeda-Urbina as the primary suspect.
Approximately one hour after the initial call, automated Flock license plate reader cameras flagged Zepeda-Urbina’s vehicle. Officers located the vehicle around 5 a.m. and conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Beneva Road and Fruitville Road, taking him into custody without incident.
Police confirmed that the victim’s next of kin has been notified. Her name has not been released.
Zepeda-Urbina remains booked at the Sarasota County Jail.
The investigation is ongoing. Police ask anyone with relevant information to contact the Sarasota Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 941-263-6070 or submit an anonymous tip through Sarasota Crime Stoppers at 941-366-TIPS (8477).
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