Jose Manuel Clas Gonzalez, a 60-year-old resident of Winter Garden, Florida, tragically lost his life on the evening of October 7, 2020. The incident occurred on the front porch of his home located on Lincoln Terrace. According to reports, Gonzalez was confronted by at least one gunman during an attempted robbery. An altercation ensued, during which Gonzalez was shot multiple times. Despite the efforts of emergency responders who performed CPR and transported him to Orlando Regional Medical Center, Gonzalez was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
Gonzalez was a beloved father and grandfather, known for his work as a painter and roofer. His girlfriend, Linda Carter, described him as a kind-hearted individual who was not prone to starting trouble and was well-loved by those who knew him. The senseless nature of his death left his family and community in shock and mourning.
The investigation into Gonzalez's death led to the arrest of 24-year-old Phillip Alonte Stalnaker. Stalnaker was apprehended in connection with an attempted murder case that occurred in September 2020. Upon his arrest, he was found in possession of a firearm believed to have been used in both the attempted murder and Gonzalez's shooting. Stalnaker admitted to being the perpetrator in both cases and revealed that he had planned to commit another homicide had he not been arrested. He now faces a first-degree murder charge in connection with Gonzalez's death.
The Winter Garden Police Department continues to investigate the case, working on several leads to ensure justice for Gonzalez and his family. The community remains hopeful that the legal proceedings will bring some measure of closure to this tragic event.
