Florida Teen Murdered After Meeting Man on Dating App
St. Petersburg, Fla. – A missing Gulfport teenager has been confirmed dead in what authorities are calling a horrific crime. Police say 16-year-old Miranda Corsette was killed and dismembered after meeting a man on a dating app.
Investigation and Timeline
According to St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway, a witness provided police with information about a possible kidnapping and murder. The investigation led officers to discover that Corsette had been in contact with 35-year-old Steven Gress through a dating app.
On February 14, Gress reportedly picked up Corsette from her home and spent the day with her before returning her in the evening. However, the following day, February 15, Corsette voluntarily returned to Gress’ residence, located at 2708 27th Ave. N. in Gulfport.
Corsette, who lived with her grandmother following the death of both her parents, was reported missing on February 24. Gulfport Police Commander Mary Farrand stated that Corsette was known to run away frequently, but this time she failed to return home as expected. She was also the mother of an 11-month-old child.
Murder and Disposal of the Body
Authorities say Corsette remained at Gress’ home with him and his domestic partner, Michelle Brandes. On February 20, an argument broke out over a missing piece of jewelry, during which Corsette was beaten. Sometime between February 20 and 24, she was killed.
Holloway stated that after her death, Gress transported Corsette’s body to a home on Mallory Drive in Largo, where Brandes’ mother lived. Investigators believe Corsette’s body was dismembered at this location before being driven to Hillsborough County and disposed of in a dumpster at 2893 14th Avenue S.E. in Ruskin. Authorities are actively searching for her remains.
Arrests and Charges
Gress was already in custody for a separate incident in which he allegedly pointed a harpoon at Brandes and was found in possession of illegal drugs. Following the latest investigation, he has now been charged with:
- First-degree murder
- Kidnapping
- Drug possession
Police say additional charges may follow as they continue to gather evidence.
Meanwhile, authorities are still searching for Michelle Brandes. Chief Holloway has urged her to come forward, warning that anyone found aiding her in evading law enforcement could also face charges.
“This is a horrific crime,” Holloway stated. “We are committed to ensuring justice for Miranda. Every responsible party will be held accountable.”
Public Assistance Requested
Police are asking for the public’s help in locating Brandes. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact the St. Petersburg Police Department at 727-893-7780 or text SPPD along with their tip to TIP411.
As the investigation continues, authorities stress the importance of online safety, particularly for minors using dating apps. This tragic case serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with meeting strangers online.
