A manhunt ended when Polk County deputies arrested a wanted fugitive who allegedly murdered his aunt and stabbed his father 23 times Tuesday night in Davenport.
Polk County deputies say just before midnight, 46-year-old Pedro Vega Jr. murdered his aunt inside a a home located at 1614 Davenport Boulevard.
“He’s evil in the flesh,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.
According to the Sheriff, Vega went into the home where he stabbed and slashed his father 23 times. He also stabbed his aunt, 59-year-old Rosa Iris Vega, who passed away at the scene. Vega left his father bound by the hands and feet with tape over his mouth.
Vega then went next door and broke into the home of his estranged wife 46-year-old Amanda Stokes. Also inside the residence was Jordan Stokes and Caine Espinoza. Vega was armed with a rifle and fired shots inside the home. Espinoza fired several shots back at Vega and believes he hit him. Vega then ran back next door and took his fathers pick-up truck, dropping the rifle on the way, before driving off.
Florida Highway Patrol officers arrested Vega on Monday morning around 8 a.m. after spotting the suspect vehicle on the highway. He was suffering from a gunshot wound and is now in the hospital in police custody.
Vega was wanted on outstanding warrants in Polk County for Aggravated Battery after he stabbed and beat his estranged wife back in May.
He was hiding and running from law enforcement. According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, Vega's aunt was helping hide him.
Vega was previously sent to prison for 13 years for a sexual battery conviction.
