DeLand, FL - The man who DeLand Police say killed and dumped the body of a 16-year-old Sorrento girl in DeLand is under arrest. DPD arrested 40-year-old Robert Kern, Jr. today (May 24), charging him with second degree murder in the death of Justis Garret.
Investigators say Kern was dating Justis mother at the time of her disappearance.
Justis Garrett went missing after being dropped off by her mother at Mount Dora High School on April 13. Investigators say her cell phone was turned off and that there were seemingly no incidents that may have prompted her to run away.
Human remains were found five days later by joggers on Gasline Rd. in DeLand. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement confirmed the identity as Justis Garrett.
FDLE says Kern was arrested in Suffolk County, New York and is being extradited to the Volusia County Branch Jail.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
