A man arrested in Seminole County in a truck stolen from an elderly man found dead in Kissimmee last month is now being accused of his murder, the Kissimmee Police Department announced Tuesday.
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The accusation against Nicolas Lopez, 32, comes two weeks after he was named a person of interest in Harper’s death.
One June 25, Kissimmee police had found Harper, 71, with trauma to his face at a house on the 1500 block of Heather Way after receiving a call about an injured person on the property, according to the agency. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Lopez was arrested shortly afterward in Altamonte Springs for providing a false identity during a traffic stop on Montgomery Road and South Netherwood Crescent.
A cell tower pinged the location of Harper’s phone to the location of the traffic stop, according to an arrest affidavit, and Kissimmee police detectives contacted Altamonte Springs police. Lopez is scheduled to be arraigned in Seminole County court on July 23.
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In addition to second-degree murder, Lopez is accused of grand theft for stealing the truck. He’s currently in the John E. Polk Correctional Facility in Sanford on a hold as he awaits his return to Osceola County.
“Our officers and detectives remained committed to following the evidence wherever it led,” Chief Charles Broadway said in a statement. “This arrest warrant reflects the dedication, professionalism, and teamwork of everyone involved in this investigation. While today’s arrest warrant marks an important milestone, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Mr. Harper’s family as they navigate this difficult time.”
Born in Barbados, Harper was described in his obituary as an active member of Grace Bible Church and a kindhearted man.
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He is survived by his wife, six children, six grandchildren and other relatives.