Missing Florida Woman’s Body Found In Vegetation & Person of Interest in Custody, Police Say

A month after she was reported missing, the body of a Florida woman was discovered accidentally, amongst heavy vegetation, by canine units training in the area, PEOPLE reports.

Police in Lakeland confirmed late Thursday that the body found was that of 22-year-old Takeria Adderly, who was reported missing June 30. An autopsy revealed her cause of death as a homicide.

Investigators located Adderly’s abandoned vehicle on July 7 in Lakeland. Forensic evidence found inside the car was enough to arrest a “person of interest,” according to police.

“Evidence from her vehicle recovery led investigators to identify a person of interest in Adderly’s disappearance. That person, Cristian Darrach, age 21, was located on July 10, 2020, and interviewed,” a statement from Police said. “The investigation, at that time, developed enough probable cause to arrest Darrach for grand theft and burglary of Adderly’s vehicle, as well as additional charges of tampering with evidence and violation of probation.”

Darrach has not been charged with Adderly’s murder, but the police say he “remains a primary person of interest in Adderly’s disappearance and now, her death.” The manner of Adderly’s death was not disclosed, nor was a motive.

Darrach has yet to enter pleas for his charges, but he remains in custody without bond. Police say Adderly’s death is an active investigation, and anyone with any information about her disappearance or death is urged to call either (863) 834-8975 or (863) 559-5137. Tips can also be left anonymously by calling (800) 226-8477.