Teen Arrested After Human Remains Discovered in Suitcases

Local reports indicate that police have found human remains in two suitcases, leading to the arrest of a teenager suspected of targeting sex offenders.

On March 28, Lucas Sander Jones, 19, was taken into custody in Palm Bay, Florida, following a search warrant executed at his residence. Authorities reportedly met with Jones and his girlfriend, who stated that he was injured and uncooperative with investigators.

The search of the home revealed blood stains and a knife, which is believed to be the murder weapon. Earlier, one of the suitcases was discovered at a complex in Palm Bay. It was found partially open, while the other contained personal items along with a package meant for Jones. Both suitcases are thought to have held human remains.

The location is largely undeveloped land in central Florida. Reports indicate that the victim was identified as Cory Lee Daniel, a 28-year-old man from India.

According to an affidavit mentioned in the reports, Jones’ girlfriend told investigators that he confessed to killing Daniel. She claimed he admitted, “I killed people and cut them up.” However, she initially told police that she saw Daniel alive in Jones’ bed on March 20, but later retracted that statement, saying she had never seen the victim alive or deceased. Daniel was reported missing on March 22.

Jones faces several charges, including abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence, and improper disposal of a body, as well as second-degree murder. An autopsy concluded that Daniel’s death was a homicide, with signs of multiple blunt force injuries and mutilation.

Reports also indicate that Jones allegedly told his girlfriend he used a baseball bat to kill Daniel before dismembering him. Jones’ attorney has not commented on the case.

Cory L. Daniel will be registered as a sex offender in 2023, according to state records.