On Wednesday, December 27, 2023, Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Major Crimes detectives arrested Saul Garcia Macias (DOB:11/20/2002) for the murder of 17-year-old Sofia Lugo.
On Sunday, December 10, 2023, at approximately 12:55 a.m., Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies responded to a report of a suspicious death at a home in the 1000 block of NW 111th Court, Ocala. When deputies arrived, they located Sofia, who sustained a gunshot wound. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. During the investigation, detectives conducted interviews and learned that Garcia Macias had stated he had “done something” to Sophia before fleeing the scene. After 17 days of hiding, Garcia Macias called the Sheriff’s Office and agreed to meet with detectives for questioning.
Due to the evidence collected and witness statements, Garcia Macias has been charged with Second-Degree Murder. He is being held in the Marion County Jail, awaiting his first appearance. Detectives requested that Garcia Macias be held without bond, as he is an illegal immigrant who has been known to leave the country when in trouble with Law Enforcement.
