Body of elderly man who was reported missing found in Homestead

The city of Homestead confirmed Friday that a 78-year-old man who was reported missing has been found dead.

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According to city spokeswoman Camila Varcarcel, the body of Francisco Javier De Armas, who has Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, was found Wednesday in the “backseat of a decommissioned vehicle located in a fenced area of the City of Homestead’s motor pool.”

“The Homestead Police Department initially handled the missing persons case, which has since been turned over to Miami-Dade Homicide for further investigation,” a statement from the city read. “We are working closely with investigators to determine exactly how this happened. We are fully committed to a thorough and transparent review of all circumstances surrounding this tragic event.”

According to detectives, De Armas was reported missing by his wife after last being seen around 7:30 p.m. on March 30, walking away from his home near the 200 block of Southeast Sixth Avenue.

Authorities at the time said De Armas might have been disoriented.

“We ask for patience and compassion as we support the family and our community through this loss,” the city’s statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”