Laralee Spear, a 15-year-old student from DeLand, Volusia County, Florida, was tragically abducted and murdered on April 25, 1994. She was last seen getting off her school bus near Deerfoot Road and Spring Garden Avenue, around 3:15 p.m., just a short distance from her family home. It is believed that she was taken shortly after exiting the bus. Laralee's mother reported her missing around 4:05 p.m. when she did not arrive home as expected. Shortly thereafter, deputies were dispatched, and by 5:35 p.m., her body was found near a burned-down house about a quarter-mile from her residence. She had been shot and left at the site, which was known to be a gathering place for teenagers, with evidence of target practice nearby.
Over the years, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office has continued efforts to solve the case, involving local detectives and collaborating with the FBI to explore new investigative techniques and advancements in technology. Despite these efforts, Laralee's killer has not yet been identified. The case remains unsolved, and the authorities have repeatedly appealed to the public for information. The reward for tips leading to an arrest has been increased to $100,000, hoping to encourage someone with information to come forward. Investigators believe that even a small detail could be the key to breaking the case and providing justice for Laralee and her family, who have endured decades of uncertainty and grief.
The murder of Laralee Spear remains a deeply unsettling cold case, highlighting the vulnerability of innocent victims. Authorities continue to seek leads, and the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office has released a video and renewed public outreach efforts to generate interest in the case. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Major Case Unit to help solve this tragic crime and bring closure to Laralee's family.
