OCALA, Fla. – A lawn maintenance worker discovered the body of a teenager in the woods in Marion County, prompting a homicide investigation, the sheriff’s office said.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday said Lazarius Graham, 17, was found dead around 7:15 p.m. Wednesday near the 2100 block of NW 43rd Street in Ocala.
The sheriff’s office posted on Facebook that deputies were called to the area and said Graham was found dead and had been shot. His cause of death has not been released.
An investigation is underway, but sheriff’s officials are seeking assistance.
“We are asking for the public’s help. If you noticed anything suspicious in this area between Monday, June 5, 2023, and Wednesday, June 7, 2023, or if you have any information regarding this homicide, please call 352-732-9111,” the post stated.
To stay anonymous, call CrimeStoppers of Marion County at 352-732-STOP and reference 23-33.
No other details have been released.