ST. PETERSBURG, FL – The tranquil facade of a St. Petersburg neighborhood has been shattered following the grim discovery linked to the murder of a teenage girl. Authorities have identified Stephen Grass, 35, as the suspect in the alleged kidnapping, murder, and dismemberment of 16-year-old Miranda Core. Grass is believed to have disposed of the remains in a dumpster in Ruskin, an act that has left the community in shock.
The unsettling details emerged after police announced that Core had been lured via a social media app to meet Grass on Valentine’s Day. An argument over a piece of jewelry allegedly escalated into violence, culminating in Core’s brutal murder. Investigators report that from February 20 to February 24, Core suffered horrific abuse before being killed, a revelation that has deeply disturbed residents.
Chief Anthony Holloway of the St. Petersburg Police Department described the events as unimaginable, emphasizing the brutality involved. After the murder, Grass, along with his domestic partner Michelle Brandis, allegedly transported Core’s body to a residence in Largo, believed to belong to Brandis’s mother. It was there that the body was reportedly dismembered before being discarded in Ruskin.
The tragedy has left neighbors in disbelief, struggling to comprehend how such violence could unfold in their community. “It’s very disappointing because you never expect something like this to happen so close to home,” one resident remarked, reflecting the pervasive sense of unease.
As the investigation continues, authorities are now seeking Michelle Brandis, who is believed to have been present during the disposal of Core’s body. Police have urged Brandis to surrender, warning that anyone aiding her will face legal consequences. Chief Holloway stressed the urgency of bringing all involved parties to justice, stating, “Michelle, if you’re out there, turn yourself in. We will find you sooner or later.”
Despite the issuance of a plea for Brandis’s cooperation, she remains uncharged at this time. Witnesses have placed her at the scene, adding another layer to the ongoing investigation. The case underscores the potential dangers of social media interactions, prompting community leaders to call for increased vigilance among parents and guardians.
As residents grapple with the aftermath, the search for answers continues, with investigators sifting through evidence to piece together the full narrative of this tragic incident. The community remains on edge, united in their hope for justice and healing.