Lee County Murder Suspect Arrested In Pasco County

Lehigh Acres, FL – On April 7th, Lee County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a stabbing in the 3000 block of 56th Street West in Lehigh Acres.

Upon arrival, they discovered the victim, who had a domestic relationship with the suspect, deceased in the garage with multiple stab wounds. The suspect, identified as Lukas Carlton, 23, fled the scene after the incident.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit immediately took over the investigation due to the severity of the crime. Detectives worked  through the night, canvassing the neighborhood, reviewing surveillance footage, and collecting evidence. Their diligent efforts led to the quick identification and location of the suspect in Hillsborough County.

On April 8th at 3:14 PM, Florida Highway Patrol troopers, acting on a request from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota Tacoma driven by Carlton at SR-52 and Mirada Boulevard in Pasco County. The 23-year-old Lehigh Acres man was taken into custody on an out-of-county warrant for murder.

Carlton has been charged with Second Degree Murder in connection to the stabbing death. The victim’s family has been notified.

“This was a completely horrific act, my heart breaks for the family of the victim,” stated Sheriff Carmine Marceno.

“I am proud of my detectives dedication throughout the night and the multi-agency teamwork that led to the arrest of this violent criminal in less than 24 hours.”