Ryan Cole has been indicted for first-degree murder of Khyler Edman

Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell and State Attorney Amira Fox announced Friday that the Charlotte County Grand Jury indicted Ryan Clayton Cole for First-Degree Murder, First-Degree Burglary and Burglary of a Dwelling.

Cole is formally charged with murdering 15-year-old Khyler Edman during the commission of a burglary of a Port Charlotte home on September 26, 2019. Cole is alleged to have stabbed the young teen to death at the time of the crime. Cole is also alleged to have burglarized a second home shortly thereafter and discovered by that homeowner.

Sheriff Bill Prummell stated, “I applaud my deputies and investigators for their tireless work on this very tragic case. I also thank the State’s Attorney’s Office as we continue to work hand in hand in bringing this investigation to a successful conclusion. My heart goes out to the family of this 15-year-old boy.”

Even with Cole off the street and justice continuing to be served, neighbors say say they will never be the same.

“I walk on my back porch at night, and, now, I’m afraid to be outside there by myself,” neighbor Donna Vela said.

Still, Vela has positive memories of Khyler, whose life was taken from him, his family and community members.

”He was a good kid,” Vela said. “He didn’t deserve what happened to him.”

The new charges brought against Cole do bring some solace to Khyler’s family. We spoke to his grandmother, Rebecca English, over the phone.

“We can take a breath that they’re going forward with harsher charges,” English said.

State attorney shared almost exact sentiment for the hope of the family, as Cole now faces First-Degree Murder.

“I hope that today’s indictment and the ensuing prosecution brings some small solace to a family suffering unimaginable pain and heartache,” Fox said during the press conference Friday.

Cole was scheduled to appear before the judge Saturday morning, but after being delayed, it was moved until possibly Sunday, but that could change. His arraignment is scheduled for Monday.