Polk County, FL– A 19-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly fatally stabbing his former roommate in a Davenport home, authorities reported. The victim, 67-year-old John Joseph Torneo, a retired nurse, was found dead Sunday in his residence in the Polo Park West retirement community, near the junction of Orange Lake, Osceola, and Polk counties.
Torneo was well-regarded in the community for his generosity and willingness to help those in need. Sheriff Grady Judd described him as “just a superhuman being and always wants to help people” during a news conference on Tuesday.
Timeline Leading to the Crime
Detectives learned that Torneo was last seen on Thursday by a friend who had a key to his home. Concerned about his well-being, the friend visited the residence but discovered the locks had recently been changed, as Torneo had asked a roommate to leave.
Investigators quickly identified Julian Trevino, 19, as the suspect. Trevino had moved in with Torneo in September but was asked to leave the previous Wednesday for failing to pay rent and maintain the home.
Suspect Uses Victim’s Bank Card
After Torneo’s death, Trevino allegedly used the victim’s bank card at a nearby pizza restaurant where he worked as a dishwasher, and at a local convenience store.
At approximately 4:45 a.m. Monday, Torneo’s vehicle was spotted traveling south on U.S. 27. Law enforcement units followed the vehicle as it entered The Ridge neighborhood. The vehicle later crashed in a ditch near Tank Toad and Teacher Lane, and Trevino fled on foot. He was captured shortly after, and authorities recovered Torneo’s bank card from his possession.
Confession and Motive
Following his arrest, Trevino allegedly confessed to breaking into Torneo’s home through a bathroom window, hiding in a closet, and attacking the victim with a butcher knife and a wine bottle. Investigators say the suspect’s motive was to steal money from Torneo.
Charges Filed
Trevino has been booked into the Polk County Jail and faces numerous charges, including:
- First-degree murder (felony)
- Armed robbery (felony)
- Tampering with evidence (three counts, felony)
- Armed burglary of a dwelling (first-degree felony)
- Burglary of an occupied dwelling (first-degree felony)
- Obtaining property by force (third-degree felony)
- Criminal use of personal identification (third-degree felony)
- Tampering with a victim (third-degree felony)
- Grand theft from a dwelling (third-degree felony)
- Grand theft motor vehicle (third-degree felony)
- Fleeing to elude (third-degree felony)
- Theft of a bank card (first-degree misdemeanor)
- Fraudulent use of a bank card (first-degree misdemeanor)
- Resisting without violence (first-degree misdemeanor)
- Petit theft (second-degree misdemeanor)
- Driving without a valid license (second-degree misdemeanor)
Community Reaction
Neighbors described Torneo as a kindhearted and helpful resident, and the news of his murder has sent shockwaves through the Polo Park West community. Authorities emphasized the swift and thorough investigation that led to the arrest of Trevino and the recovery of stolen property.
Share Your Thoughts
What steps can communities take to protect vulnerable residents from theft and violent crimes by acquaintances or roommates? Share your thoughts and condolences in the comments below.
