STUART, FL – Authorities in Martin County have charged a couple in connection with a fatal stabbing that occurred near a local event on Saturday night. The incident unfolded after an argument spiraled into violence, resulting in the death of 35-year-old Richard Pepe, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.
The events leading to the tragedy began at Plant Bamboo, a venue hosting Mudfest, where Pepe was reportedly involved in a dispute with his girlfriend or ex-girlfriend. As tensions flared, Pepe decided to leave the event, walking approximately a mile away before being attacked.
Investigators revealed that two individuals, Jacob Stevens and Megan Brown, both from Okeechobee, were not present at the initial altercation. Instead, they were summoned to the scene following the fight. Upon arrival, they encountered Pepe walking along the road, leading to another confrontation that ended with Pepe being fatally stabbed.
Despite his critical injuries, Pepe managed to call 911, informing dispatchers that he had been stabbed and required urgent assistance. When emergency responders arrived, they found him unresponsive and covered in blood. His death has since been classified as a homicide.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and officials are working to piece together the sequence of events. Major Ruben Romero of the Martin County Sheriff’s Office stated that the victim had no prior acquaintance with Stevens, the alleged assailant.
Authorities have arrested Stevens and charged him with first-degree murder, while Brown faces charges of accessory for allegedly driving Stevens to the scene. Investigators are continuing to explore potential leads, including analyzing phone records and executing search warrants on relevant properties and vehicles to gather further evidence.
Romero emphasized that the investigation is far from over, as detectives are determined to uncover all aspects of the crime, including what was said and seen by witnesses. The sheriff’s office is committed to ensuring justice for the victim and his family.