The Venice Police Department has made an arrest in Monday’s homicide case.
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
VPD
At approximately 6:02 a.m. April 6, Venice Police Department officers responded to a reported altercation in the 200 block of South Grove Street.
Prior to officers’ arrival, a witness reported observing a physical fight between two subjects in the front of 234 Grove St. S. The witness further reported seeing one individual being dragged toward a pickup truck, after which the suspect left the scene, leaving the victim at the location.
The witness then advised that the suspect returned to the area with a trailer. Shortly thereafter, Venice Police officers arrived on scene and detained Richard Barker, 42.
Officers located an unresponsive adult male at the scene. Despite life‑saving efforts by VPD officers and Venice Fire Rescue, the victim, later identified as Jeffrey Hubbard, 67, succumbed to his injuries. The official cause and manner of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner and released at a later date.
Investigators determined that Mr. Hubbard and Mr. Barker were known to one another through their employment at the incident location, where Barker was employed by Hubbard. Barker was detained and subsequently made statements admitting responsibility for the incident. Following a careful review of the evidence developed during the investigation, and in consultation with the State Attorney’s Office, a determination was made to charge Barker with second‑degree murder and tampering with evidence.
“While Venice is a safe community, we want the public to understand that serious crime does occur,” said Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring. “This arrest marks the third murder arrest our department has made in the past six months. Our officers and investigators continue to do outstanding work to protect this community and bring cases to resolution.”
This incident is believed to be isolated, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. The investigation remains ongoing.