Ocala, Florida — As the murder/homicide rate in Marion County continues to rise, another deadly shooting is being investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation continues after Marion County Sheriff’s detectives were notified of the shooting deaths of two people whose bodies were found inside an Ocala residence on April 21.
The bodies were discovered in the 3000 block of Southeast 132nd Place.
The deceased were identified as 37-year-old Erica Brooks, and James Marean, 64.
At this time, authorities have not released any further information.
Local law enforcement would like Marion County residents to believe the crime rate is down, however, statistics show the opposite.
According to FDLE, the murder rate in Marion County increased from 4.1 percent (13 murders) in 2022 to 6.4 percent (21 murders) in 2023.
Ocala is currently listed in the top 20 in the state of Florida for most violent cities. Orlando comes in as number two and Miami Beach is number one.