Bruce Hagans Jr., a 16-year-old African American male from Winter Garden, FL, tragically lost his life on May 31, 2019. His death was the result of a violent incident that began as a drug deal gone wrong. On the day of his death, Bruce Hagans Jr. met with a family member of Luis Rivera Sr. for a marijuana sale. During this encounter, gunshots were heard, and Bruce was seen slumped over in the vehicle. His body was later found in a shallow grave near a home on Robertson Street in Orlando, following an Amber Alert issued for his disappearance.
The investigation into Bruce Hagans Jr.'s death led to the arrest of Luis Rivera Jr., a 20-year-old male, who was charged with second-degree murder with a weapon and tampering with evidence. Rivera Jr. was apprehended in New Britain, Connecticut, where he had been hiding with the help of extended family and friends. He was extradited to Orange County and held without bond. His father, Luis Rivera Sr., was also implicated in the case. Rivera Sr. faced charges of tampering with evidence after allegedly helping to dispose of Bruce's body and attempting to cover up the crime. He paid a body shop to clean up blood and repair the bullet-riddled car used in the crime.
The case has been emotionally devastating for Bruce Hagans Jr.'s family. His father, Bruce Hagans Sr., expressed his grief and desire for justice, stating that his son had a bright future and aspirations of becoming a professional football player or a mechanic. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities indicating that more arrests could be made as they continue to uncover details surrounding the tragic event.
