Forney, Texas – Two 19-year-old men wanted in connection with a South Florida homicide have been arrested in Texas after investigators tracked them to an apartment complex east of Dallas. Authorities confirmed the suspects are facing murder and evidence tampering charges related to the death of a 22-year-old Florida man.
The arrests were made Wednesday in Forney, located about 20 miles east of Dallas, following coordination between Florida and Texas law enforcement agencies.
Homicide Victim Found in Vehicle at West Broward Boat Ramp
According to officials, the victim, Hunter Howell, 22, of Pembroke Pines, Florida, was found dead inside a green Honda at the West Broward Boat Ramp on February 1. He was discovered seated in the front passenger seat of the vehicle near 3451 North U.S. 27.
The Broward County Medical Examiner later ruled Howell’s death a homicide. Investigators believe the killing occurred a day earlier, on January 31. However, authorities have not publicly released details regarding the manner of death or a possible motive behind the incident.
Suspects Identified and Warrants Issued
Following the discovery of Howell’s body, Broward homicide detectives launched an investigation and developed probable cause to arrest two individuals in connection with the case.
The suspects were identified as Jayden DeJesus, 19, of Miami, and Trevon Quinones, 19, of Forney, Texas. Both were charged with murder and tampering with evidence. Active arrest warrants were issued for the pair in Broward County.
Investigators determined the suspects had traveled to Texas, prompting assistance from federal and local authorities to locate and apprehend them.
Arrest Made Without Incident in Forney
The U.S. Marshals Service contacted the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office to help track down the suspects, who were believed to be staying at an apartment complex in Forney.
Authorities said one of the suspects left the apartment complex in a vehicle and was stopped during a traffic stop. The operation was supported by the K-9 Unit, Forney police, and the Kaufman County Constable’s Office. Both DeJesus and Quinones were taken into custody without incident.
Law enforcement officials confirmed there were no injuries reported during the arrest.
Suspects Await Extradition to Florida
Following their arrest, DeJesus and Quinones were booked into the Kaufman County Jail. As of Thursday, both remain in custody and are awaiting extradition proceedings to return to Florida, where they will face the charges filed in Broward County.
Authorities emphasized that the homicide investigation remains ongoing under the jurisdiction of the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Officials have not disclosed additional information about the circumstances surrounding Howell’s death or whether further arrests are expected.
The case continues to develop as investigators work to determine the events leading up to the fatal incident and gather additional evidence related to the charges.
