Two people are in custody in connection to the murder and dismemberment of 16-year-old Miranda Corsette, whose remains are still being searched for in a landfill in Florida.
Corsette went missing after meeting 35-year-old Steven Gress through a dating app in late February. She was reported missing on February 24 to Gulfport Police. Authorities believe that between February 20 and February 24, Corsette was beaten and suffocated in what was described as a violent dispute.
St. Petersburg neighbors, stunned by the horrific crime so close to home, expressed their shock and disbelief. “I’m just in shock honestly. You hear about these things in movies or news, but to have it happen just two doors down, it’s hard to believe,” said neighbor Kathleen Randall.
Authorities confirmed that Gress transported Corsette’s body to a home in Largo, where it was dismembered and later disposed of in a dumpster in Ruskin. Investigators are still searching for her remains at the Hillsborough County landfill, though they acknowledge the difficulty of finding her body.
Corsette, who had an 11-month-old child and lived with her grandmother, was subjected to a tragic and brutal death. “For him to have the time to do that and to even acknowledge to do that to somebody is just sad,” said neighbor Randy Walker, adding that the situation was truly disturbing.
Michelle Brandes, Gress’s domestic partner, turned herself in to authorities and was charged with murder. Gress, who was arrested last week on unrelated charges, now faces charges of murder and kidnapping.
The community has expressed its condolences to Corsette’s family, with neighbors offering their prayers and support during this tragic time.
