DESOTO COUNTY, Fla. — The mother of Olivia Maldonado, who was tragically killed at a flea market in DeSoto County, spoke to NBC2 about the ongoing search for her daughter’s killer. Maldonado’s ex-boyfriend is the prime suspect, accused of ambushing her as she exited her SUV.
Juanita De La Torre, the mother of Maldonado, described her daughter as a hardworking and kindhearted mother. According to De La Torre, the former couple had only been dating for a few months, and she never suspected that Emilio Olalde would become violent towards her daughter. Witnesses at the flea market recalled Olalde making ominous comments about having a “little surprise” for Maldonado upon her arrival. Tragically, the situation escalated to a violent confrontation, leading to Maldonado’s untimely death.
After the shooting, Olalde fled in his white truck, leaving it abandoned in a grove. Authorities are still searching for the murder weapon and are urging the public to come forward with any information on Olalde’s whereabouts. According to Maldonado’s family, Olalde has ties to South Carolina, Texas, and Mexico, and they suspect that his family may be harboring him.
The heartbroken family is pleading for anyone with information about Olalde’s whereabouts to come forward, as they continue to grapple with the devastating loss of Maldonado. Authorities are warning the public that Olalde should be considered armed and dangerous.
In the wake of this tragic incident, the community is coming together to support Maldonado’s family and to call for justice. The manhunt for Olalde remains ongoing as the search for answers and closure continues. If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Emilio Olalde, please contact 911 immediately.