Active search in DeSoto County for man suspected of homicide

Writer: Rachel Murphy
Published: Updated:
Emilio Gustavo Olalde Angel (CREDIT: DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office)

The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in an active search for an armed 53-year-old man who allegedly killed a woman.

DeSoto County deputies suspect that Emilio Gustavo Angel Olalde was involved in a shooting at the flea market on U.S. 17 and Southwest MLK Jr. Street, Sunday morning. It was later confirmed to be a homicide.

According to deputies, the victim, identified as Oliva Maldonaldo De La Torre, was fatally shot at the flea market in Arcadia. Deputies suspect that the shooting was premeditated, as it is believed that Angel is an ex-boyfriend of De La Torre.

At the scene, family and friends of De La Torre set up a small candlelight memorial for her, next to her car that was towed from the flea market Monday afternoon.

“And all of a sudden, this happens out of the clear blue, which is devastating for the victim’s family, devastating for the community and for individuals around that seen it as well,” said the DeSoto County Sheriff, James Potter, “so it’s just a sad situation that occurred … if he’s out and he’s listening to this, come turn yourself in. That’s going to be the best thing you can do.”

Olalde was last seen leaving the area of the flea market driving a four-door, white Ford F-150 with a tag reading Y74CQD. There is an emblem of a scorpion on the back window, according to deputies.

“We responded to the flea market yesterday morning, about 8:30, with shots fired. When we arrived on scene, we did find a female who had been shot,” said Sheriff Potter.

Authorities ask you not to approach Olalde if you encounter him. He is considered armed and dangerous by the sheriff’s office.

The suspected a four-door white Ford F-150 that Olvera was seen driving, with a tag reading Y74CQD (CREDIT: DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office)

“And again, isolated incident between the two people, not really a danger as a person just running around in different areas, more of an isolated incident between the two people. However, if anyone sees him, call 911. Let us know immediately. Don’t take any chances. And if you have any kind of information, just contact us through our tip line,” said Sheriff Potter.

If you have any information on Olalde’s whereabouts, please contact the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office at 863-993-4700 or Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS. You could be eligible for a cash reward.

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