Charlie Roberts Jr. was an 18-year-old from Webster, Florida, who disappeared from Lakeland on February 23, 2021 and was reported missing that day. A large search of the Green Swamp Wildlife Management Area — a roughly 50,000-acre swamp spanning Sumter, Polk, and Lake counties — involved drones, ATVs, K-9 teams, and a helicopter. Charlie’s body was found in that swampy area; the cause of death was a homicide by firearm.

Investigators identified 19-year-old David Anthony Gracia of Lakeland as the primary suspect and say he was the last person seen with Charlie before the disappearance. After Charlie’s body was recovered, Gracia surrendered and was charged with first-degree premeditated murder; he is being held without bond pending trial. Charlie’s family has said he stepped up to support them after his mother’s death and the community has expressed grief and calls for justice.

If anyone has information about Charlie’s last known movements in Lakeland or the Green Swamp area, please come forward.