The Jacksonville community is grappling with the tragic revelation of a local woman's untimely demise after authorities discovered her body riddled with evidence of a violent struggle. According to a social media post by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, the victim has been identified as 49-year-old Kristie Lee Murray, who suffered a severe head injury and was pronounced dead at the scene on Pickettville Road.
It was back in July when the unsettling discovery was made, initiating a thorough investigation by the Homicide and Crime Scene Units. After reviewing evidence and interviews, detectives pinpointed 41-year-old Warren Abernathy as the suspect. Located already in custody on an unrelated burglary charge, the very same day Murray's body was found, Abernathy, now, faces the graver charge of murder.
Details surrounding the investigation suggest a scuffle had taken place prior to Murray's tragic death, ruling it as a homicide by the medical examiner. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has committed to working hand-in-hand with State Attorney's Office partners to supply the justice Murray's family and friends are ardently seeking.
"We will work closely with our partners at the State Attorney’s Office to ensure Ms. Murray’s family and friends receive the justice they deserve," the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has affirmed. Currently, Abernathy awaits his trial behind bars at the Duval County jail, while the community mourns and awaits answers regarding the circumstances that led to Murray's end.
