Double Homicide in Florida: Confession Leads to Investigation of Potential Serial Killer, Carlos Baez-Nieves

A recent arrest in Florida has led police to believe they may have stopped a potential serial killer.  

Carlos Baez-Nieves, a 25-year-old man, is accused of murdering two women in Orange County.

According to Sheriff John Mina, Baez-Nieves targeted vulnerable women. 

The Sheriff described Baez-Nieves' alleged crimes as particularly disturbing, stating he strangled the women and then disposed of their bodies on the side of the road.

Sheriff Mina commended the tireless efforts of his detectives, crediting them with preventing Baez-Nieves from becoming a more prolific serial killer. 

He emphasized that Baez-Nieves appeared to target women he believed wouldn't be reported missing.

The first victim, Fatia Flowers, 41, was found on March 14th at an intersection in East Orange County. 

A month later, on April 17th, the body of Nichole Daniels, 44, was discovered in the exact same location.  

Both women were tragically strangled, and authorities confirmed they were sex workers.

The victims

Investigators determined Baez-Nieves lived close to the crime scene.  

A key piece of evidence came from video surveillance footage showing Nichole Daniels entering a white Ford F-150 pickup truck the night before her death.  

This truck was later identified as belonging to Baez-Nieves.  

Sheriff Mina believes Baez-Nieves attempted to sell the truck likely to eliminate evidence.  

Fortunately, detectives were able to apprehend him for driving with a suspended license.

Authorities allege Baez-Nieves confessed to killing both women.  

However, his explanations varied.  

In one case, he claimed it was rough sex, while in the other, he alleged the victim attacked him first.

The investigation is ongoing, with police looking into the possibility of Baez-Nieves being linked to other murders.  

Sheriff Mina stated they are examining if he might have committed similar crimes in Florida or even his native Puerto Rico.  

He expressed concern that Baez-Nieves may be a repeat offender with the potential to commit further atrocities.

Carlos Baez-Nieves is currently being held at the Orange County Jail on two counts of first-degree murder. 

It is not yet known if he has entered a plea or secured legal representation.

 

[source]