Teen dies by ‘homicidal violence’ in Manatee County mobile home park, deputies say

BRADENTON,Fla. - The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after it says a teenager was killed by homicidal violence.

According to deputies, an 18-year-old was found dead inside his home at the Pic Town Mobile Home Park near 14th Street West and 53rd Avenue West around 9:30 a.m. on Sunday. 

"He was a very sweet and loving, kind young man. He would give the shirt off his back to a homeless person. He used to take books and say, ‘Mema, if you’re not going to take those books to the guys up the street so they have something to read. That’s how sweet he was. He would give them his last dollar even though he didn’t have much money," said Alicia Lakes, a lifelong family friend of the victim.

MCSO has not named any persons of interest or suspects, nor has the agency released the victim’s name. 

As investigators continue to piece together what happened, family and friends of the victim are hoping for answers soon.

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"He was an amazing man taken way too early," Lakes shared. "We want to know who did this and please put it out there, and get them, and stop them, so these crimes can stop happening to these young kids."

There have been no arrests in this case, and the victim’s family says they hope someone comes forward with information that could help lead to an arrest.

Detectives say they believe this is an isolated incident.