SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. — After an intense chase, a man accused of killing a teen and abducting his ex-girlfriend has been arrested.
The Sumter County Sheriff's Office said it was called out to an address in Bushnell around 6:30 a.m. for reports of shots fired. When they arrived, deputies say they found a 14-year-old boy dead inside the home.
At the same time, the sheriff's office says it determined that the person thought to be responsible for the teen's death, 48-year-old Samuel Marvin Thomas, had also abducted his ex-girlfriend.
Several hours after the initial call, deputies say the woman was able to escape and was safely located. With her help, the sheriff's office was able to get an updated car description and track Thomas down in Citrus County.
With the Citrus County Sheriff's Office assistance, a pursuit began in the area of State Road 44. It ended with Thomas driving the stolen vehicle into Lake Spivey in an attempt to escape, according to a release.
The sheriff's office says once in the lake, Thomas attempted to also swim away but deputies, with the assistance of a boater in the area, were able to capture him.
Thomas has been taken to Citrus Memorial Hospital for a "precautionary evaluation." Once cleared he will be taken to the Citrus County Jail while awaiting extradition back to Sumter County.
He is being held with no bond at this time.
Thomas faces charges of first-degree murder, kidnapping, armed burglary and fleeing to elude.
Detectives are still working the case to seek further information that may assist in the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Brent Sargent at 352-569-1618 or if you want to remain anonymous you can call Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).
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