SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – Authorities are investigating two recent murders in Central Florida that appear to be connected. Last week, a carjacking and abduction in Seminole County tragically ended in the death of Katherine Aguasvivas. In a separate incident in Orange County, Juan Cintron-Garcia was shot and killed.
Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma stated on Monday that the suspect vehicle and weapon used in both cases suggest a link between the two crimes. Katherine’s father expressed profound grief over her death to a Miami affiliate station, highlighting the devastating impact on their family. He described Katherine as a caretaker for the family.
According to Sheriff Lemma, Katherine was carjacked and abducted last Thursday at a stoplight in Winter Springs, with the entire incident recorded on a cellphone. The footage shows a masked man with a gun threatening Katherine before getting into the back seat of the white SUV. They were then followed by a green Acura.
Investigators revealed that the green Acura in question had been towed from an apartment complex in Orange County back in March, with the tow truck driver later identified as Juan Cintron-Garcia. Witnesses reported seeing a similar green car at the location where Cintron-Garcia was fatally shot in Taft the night before the kidnapping.
Sheriff Lemma mentioned the presence of 10mm rounds at both crime scenes, linking them further. Although the green Acura has been located, the suspects involved in both cases remain at large, prompting a plea from the sheriff’s office for public assistance in locating them.
Moreover, an Orange County deputy has been arrested in connection with the case on five felony charges related to wiretapping and misuse of police databases. The deputy allegedly contacted the lead investigator on the case, pretending to be an Orange County detective and sharing confidential information with the victim’s husband.
Law enforcement expert Randy Nelson underscored the importance of adhering to protocols and utilizing information only in an official capacity, condemning any misuse of power. The investigation continues as authorities work to gather physical evidence that conclusively ties the murders together.