Pinellas County, Florida – The sheriff’s office is renewing efforts in six long-unsolved homicide and missing persons cases across the county.
According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, detectives are highlighting cold cases from 1974 to 2008 as part of a monthly initiative aimed at generating new leads and encouraging community tips.
Among the cases is Eleanor Swift, who was found murdered inside her Seminole home in February 1987 after an apparent break-in. Investigators said her death occurred days after another local killing in similar circumstances.
Andrew Jackson Poe, a St. Petersburg cab driver, was reported missing in July 1974. His body was later discovered in the trunk of his submerged taxi, authorities said.
Scott Sherman Smith was killed inside his Pinellas Park home in May 1980. Investigators previously said the homicide may have been connected to a drug transaction.
Jess Gilbert and Vernon Nash disappeared in January 1985 after leaving for a shark fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico aboard a 24-foot vessel. Neither the men nor the boat were recovered.
Donnel Ray Sears was last seen Jan. 28, 1982, west of Madeira Beach. The sailboat he boarded was later found, but he and another individual were never located.
Flavio Sanchez Hernandez was shot and killed inside his Seminole home in June 2008. Detectives believe he may have known his attackers.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the sheriff’s office non-emergency line at 727-582-6200.
Cold cases often rely on new witnesses, advances in forensic technology, or renewed public awareness to move investigations forward.
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