In a heartbreaking turn of events, the death of 72-year-old Jesse Kirk is now being investigated as a homicide after her burned remains and SUV were discovered in Florida. The investigation has taken a shocking turn with the arrest of David Barber, the ex-boyfriend of Kirk’s niece, who remains the primary person of interest in the case.
Kirk was reported missing by a friend early on Tuesday morning when she failed to go on her usual walk. Just hours later, firefighters discovered her burning SUV near State Roads 520 and 50, located roughly 20 miles from her Titusville condo. Later that afternoon, police received a report of burned human remains found near Haulover Canal, and by Thursday, they confirmed the remains were those of Jesse Kirk.
Loved for her humanitarian work, Kirk was described as someone with the unique ability to connect with everyone she met. “Our goal will be to continue to bring justice and closure to Ms. Kirk’s family at this incredibly difficult time,” said Detective Sgt. Bryan Nelson, offering some solace to the grieving community.
The focus of the investigation quickly shifted to David Barber, the 35-year-old former boyfriend of Kirk’s niece. Surveillance footage revealed Barber was seen driving Kirk’s SUV overnight, and witnesses observed him acting suspiciously near the scene of the SUV fire. Additionally, when Barber was arrested, he had injuries consistent with burns, further linking him to the crime. Although Barber has been charged with grand theft auto and loitering, he has not yet been charged with Kirk’s death. He remains the sole person of interest in the case.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The community is left reeling from this tragic loss, and police are working relentlessly to uncover the truth behind the death of Jesse Kirk.
