A missing 16-year-old girl from Florida was killed and dismembered after meeting a man she connected with on social media, according to authorities.
On Thursday, March 6, a witness contacted police with information regarding a possible kidnapping and homicide involving a missing teenager. Investigators identified the victim as 16-year-old Miranda Corsette, who was reported missing after being lured through a social media app by 35-year-old Steven Gress.
Authorities discovered that Miranda first met Gress on Valentine’s Day. After returning home following their initial meeting, she went back to his residence the next day. She remained there with Gress and his 37-year-old girlfriend, Michelle Brandes.
According to police, a dispute occurred on February 20, during which Miranda was severely beaten. Authorities believe she was killed sometime between February 20 and February 24. Evidence suggests that Gress later placed her body in a car and transported it to another location. Investigators found signs indicating that her remains were dismembered before being moved to another county and discarded in a dumpster.
Law enforcement officials have since located the dumpster and are working to recover Miranda’s remains. The search is ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence related to the case.
Gress is currently in custody on unrelated charges. He was arrested on March 5 for allegedly pointing a harpoon at Brandes and for drug possession. In addition to those charges, he is now facing a kidnapping charge in connection with Miranda’s disappearance.
Michelle Brandes remains at large, and police are actively searching for her. Authorities are urging anyone with information on her whereabouts to come forward as the investigation continues.
