William Perez, a 24-year-old Hispanic male, was fatally shot on September 18, 2018, in Lake Worth Beach, Florida. The incident occurred at the Orange Grove Mobile Home Park along Sixth Avenue South. According to reports, Perez was involved in an apparent drug transaction where he intended to sell marijuana. Cellphone records indicated communications between Perez and Odney Alexis, a 28-year-old man from Palm Beach County, on the day of the shooting.
A car seen fleeing the scene was identified as belonging to Alexis' girlfriend, and a bank card belonging to Alexis was found inside the vehicle. Despite these connections, the evidence suggested that the fatal shot was likely fired by someone else in the car.
Odney Alexis was later indicted on a first-degree murder charge in April 2021 but ultimately pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of third-degree felony murder. He was sentenced to eight years in prison. During the court proceedings, Perez's mother expressed her belief that Alexis was not being truthful and was uncooperative in identifying others involved in the crime. Alexis maintained his innocence, stating that he had nothing to do with the shooting. The court acknowledged the family's desire for a harsher penalty but noted the uncertainty of a guilty verdict had the case gone to trial.
The investigation into Perez's death revealed a complex web of individuals tied to drugs and violence in the area. A 9mm Glock, believed to be the murder weapon, was stolen five days before the shooting and later found in the possession of James Emilus, a man with an extensive criminal history. Emilus was arrested for violating his probation and was found with the stolen gun, which firearms experts determined had a high probability of being used in Perez's murder. However, further forensic analysis was required to confirm this link definitively.
Despite the arrest and conviction of Alexis, no other individuals have been charged in connection with Perez's death. The case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in solving crimes involving multiple suspects and complex criminal networks. Perez's family continues to seek justice and closure for the loss of their loved one.
