POLK COUNTY, FL. (THECOUNT) — Heather Tyler, Winter Haven, Florida, has been identified as the suspect arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of 21-year-old Joseph Witherington, who was found in a car between orange groves.
Tyler, 28, shot “Joey” Witherington twice in his head, once while he was driving and another shot when the vehicle they were traveling came to a rest, according to reports.
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Witherington was located deceased inside a vehicle on Mud Lake Road by orange grove caretakers on the morning of March 28.
During the investigation, a pair of women’s flip-flops were found nearby, reports NBC-2.
Tyler admitted to authorities that the flip-flops belonged to her and that Witherington had picked her up in a friend’s vehicle and they hung out for a few hours. Deputies said she gave multiple versions of what happened while they were hanging out.
Investigators later determined Tyler shot Witherington once in the head while he was driving, and then shot him again when the vehicle came to a stop.
Deputies said Tyler stole Witherington’s wallet and fled the scene, leaving her shoes behind. She then burned her clothes, which had blood on them, deputies said.
“Regardless of Heather’s many reasons and excuses, we know that she executed Joseph Witherington by shooting him in the back of the head while he was driving down a dirt road between orange groves – and that is first-degree murder and we have charged her accordingly, ” Sheriff Grady Judd said. “Clearly the evidence, witnesses, and her admissions confirm that she committed cold blooded first-degree murder. Joseph’s family and friends are in our prayers. If not for the vicious act by Heather Tyler, he would be alive and well today.”
Tyler is charged with first-degree murder, tampering with evidence and grand theft of a firearm. She is being held without bond.
Family and friends took to Facebook to remember the beloved young man and to spread #justiceforjoey:
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with possible information on the fatal incident should contact police at 911.
Geo quick facts: Bartow is the county seat of Polk County, Florida, United States. Founded in 1851 as Fort Blount, the city was renamed in honor of Francis S. Bartow, the first brigade commander of the Confederate Army to die in combat during the American Civil War – Wikipedia.
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