MARION COUNTY, Fla. – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has issued an arrest warrant for 33-year-old Melvin Arias in connection with the shooting that resulted in the death of Milagros Guzman Lopez at a local shopping center. Witnesses reported that Arias arrived at the Marion Oaks Boulevard shopping plaza and engaged in an argument before retrieving a firearm from his vehicle and shooting the victim. He then fled the scene, prompting a search by deputies and detectives. According to officials, Arias should be considered armed and dangerous.
The incident occurred shortly before 2 p.m. on Friday, with MCSO deputies responding to the scene where the victim was found. The search for Arias is ongoing, and anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to contact 911.
The shooting at the Marion County shopping plaza has left the community in shock, with officials emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the need for public assistance in locating the suspect. The swift response from law enforcement highlights the urgency in apprehending Arias to ensure the safety of the community.
The tragic outcome of the shooting has raised concerns about public safety and the impact of such incidents on the local community. With the suspect still at large, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any information that may lead to Arias’s arrest.
In summary, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office has identified Melvin Arias as the suspect in the fatal shooting at a local shopping center. An arrest warrant has been issued, and authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that may assist in locating Arias, who is considered armed and dangerous.