The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the man, identified as Robert Velleca, was found in the water on September 20.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office identified a man found dead in the Ortega River last month — and now suspects foul play.
On September 20, the agency’s Marine Unit was called to the river after a body was found floating on the water, according to JSO. The victim was soon identified as 36-year-old Robert Velleca from Jacksonville, prompting an investigation into the incident.
JSO said the Medical Examiner’s Office ruled his death a homicide, although details of any injuries or cause of death were not released.
Authorities continue to seek information about the circumstances surrounding Velleca’s death. They urge anyone with insights into the case to reach out to JSO directly or anonymously via First Coast Crime Stoppers.
First Coast News has requested access to the incident report from the night Velleca was found and is working to uncover more details, including information about when he was last seen.
