Antwain Jamar Hart, a 31-year-old resident of Umatilla, Florida, tragically lost his life on November 8, 2022. Hart was found shot multiple times in his mother's front yard on Merrell Avenue. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries while being transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares. The investigation into his death revealed that his rental vehicle, a 2022 white Jeep Cherokee, was stolen at the time of the murder and later found abandoned behind the First Church of God in Eustis, approximately 3.7 miles from the crime scene.
The investigation led to the arrest of three suspects: Undray Tony Benson, Marvin Ellison, and Deandre Anderson. Surveillance footage and phone records played a crucial role in linking the suspects to the crime. A rented white Mercedes, associated with Ellison, was spotted near the murder scene and the location where Hart's vehicle was abandoned. Further evidence, including video footage, showed the suspects unloading items from the Mercedes into an apartment leased by a family member of Benson. During a search of the apartment, detectives found illegal drugs and a 9mm handgun, which matched the weapon used to kill Hart.
The motive for the murder appeared to be related to illegal narcotics found in Hart's vehicle. Benson, Ellison, and Anderson were believed to have collaborated in the murder, possibly during a robbery attempt. Benson was arrested about five months after the murder, and by July 2023, both Ellison and Anderson were also in custody.
In January 2025, Undray Tony Benson was found guilty of first-degree murder following a bench trial and was sentenced to life in prison by Judge James R. Baxley. The prosecution, led by Assistant State Attorneys Gabe Lozano and Nicholas Camuccio, presented a compelling case that highlighted the calculated and deliberate nature of Benson's actions. The other two suspects, Ellison and Anderson, are set to stand trial soon. The case underscores the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and the judicial system in bringing justice to the victim and his family.
