A St. Lucie County homicide investigation is underway after authorities identified a 51-year-old sex offender as the suspect in the death of a Port St. Lucie woman. The victim, Toni-Lynn Marie Trabb, 58, was found deceased Monday morning in a hotel room located on South U.S. 1.
Suspect Identified in St. Lucie County Homicide Investigation
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office named Carlos Tito Caban, 51, as the official suspect in connection to Trabb’s homicide. Caban, a registered sex offender residing in Fort Pierce, was apprehended by authorities in Tifton, Georgia, approximately 370 miles away from Port St. Lucie. More details on the suspect’s identification were revealed in the official homicide investigation.
According to Lt. Andrew Bolonka, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, Caban was found driving Trabb’s Toyota Corolla, accompanied by an unidentified woman he reportedly met in Orlando. The woman stated she was unaware of the homicide and had joined Caban after he mentioned plans to travel to New York.
Details of the Crime Scene and Investigation Progress
Trabb was discovered by cleaning staff at the Best Western hotel, located in the 7900 block of South U.S. 1, in a second-floor room. Rescue personnel and sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene, where Trabb was pronounced deceased. Authorities noted evidence of a struggle within the room, though specific details have not been released.
Initially labeled a “suspicious death,” the incident was officially classified as a homicide following a search warrant execution and subsequent examination by the Medical Examiner’s Office and crime-scene investigators. Police have since identified the victim and are continuing their investigation.
Background of Suspect Carlos Tito Caban
Carlos Tito Caban has a documented criminal history involving sexual offenses. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Caban was convicted in January 2021 in Indian River County for sexual battery involving an adult victim under aggravating circumstances. He was released from prison in 2023 and relocated to St. Lucie County earlier this year.
Investigators revealed that Caban and Trabb had known each other for several months and had a sporadic dating relationship. Authorities confirmed that charges are pending against Caban related to violations of his sex offender status in Florida.
Ongoing Efforts and Next Steps in Investigation
St. Lucie County investigators are currently traveling to Georgia to collaborate with local authorities and gather further evidence. Authorities have not yet confirmed if Caban was the individual who rented the hotel room using Trabb’s credit card, though the card was confirmed to belong to the victim.
The investigation remains active, and law enforcement officials are urging anyone with additional information to contact the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office. More details on crime trends and public safety measures can be found on the Federal Bureau of Investigation website.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
The incident has raised concerns among residents in Port St. Lucie and surrounding communities. Authorities emphasize that while the suspect has been apprehended, residents should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Lucie County Homicide Investigation
What is the current status of the St. Lucie County homicide investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities actively gathering evidence and collaborating with law enforcement in Georgia. The suspect, Carlos Tito Caban, has been identified and apprehended.
How much information has been released about the victim?
The victim is identified as Toni-Lynn Marie Trabb, a 58-year-old resident of Port St. Lucie. Further personal details have not been publicly disclosed at this time.
Are there safety concerns for residents in Port St. Lucie following this homicide?
Authorities have indicated that the suspect is in custody and there is no immediate threat to the community. However, residents are advised to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity.
Can you provide information about the suspect’s criminal history?
Carlos Tito Caban was previously convicted in 2021 for sexual battery in Indian River County. He is a registered sex offender who had recently moved to St. Lucie County.
Where are authorities currently focusing their investigation efforts?
Investigators from St. Lucie County are traveling to Tifton, Georgia, to coordinate with local law enforcement and further their investigation into the homicide.
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