Stephen J. Perry, a 55-year-old white male, was a writer known for his work on the 1980s animated series "ThunderCats" and "Silverhawks." He was reported missing in early May 2010 from his home in Zephyrhills, Florida. Perry had been battling bladder cancer and was facing significant financial difficulties, which led him to allow James Davis and Roxanne Davis to move in with him to help with expenses.
On May 16, 2010, police discovered Perry's van abandoned in the parking lot of a Quality Inn in Tampa, Florida. Inside the van, they found a severed arm, which was later confirmed to belong to Perry. Further investigation revealed more of Perry's remains scattered across various locations in Pasco and Hillsborough counties.
James Davis, a 45-year-old white male with a criminal history including kidnapping and robbery, was arrested on unrelated drug charges on May 21, 2010. He was later charged with first-degree murder in July 2010. Prosecutors alleged that Davis fatally shot Perry and used a reciprocating saw to dismember his body. The motive behind the murder was believed to be related to Perry's pain relief medications and money. Davis was convicted of the murder in 2022 and faced a possible death sentence.
The investigation into Perry's death also involved his ex-girlfriend, Krystal Carroll, who had a tumultuous relationship with Perry. She sought emergency custody of their 5-year-old son, Leo, shortly before Perry's disappearance. Despite the complex personal dynamics, the primary focus of the investigation remained on James Davis, who was ultimately held responsible for Perry's brutal murder.
