Death of man found in Jacksonville river ruled a homicide, police say
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The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the man, identified as Robert Velleca, was found in the water on September 20.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office identified a man found dead in the Ortega River last month — and now suspects foul play.

The agency’s Marine Unit responded to the river on September 20, according to JSO, where a body was discovered floating on the water. An investigation was launched, which soon identified the victim as Jacksonville’s Robert Velleca, 36.

JSO said the Medical Examiner’s Office ruled his death a homicide, although details of any injuries or cause of death were not released.

Authorities said they are still looking to determine what led up to Velleca’s murder. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact JSO directly or leave an anonymous tip through First Coast Crime Stoppers.

First Coast News has requested a copy of the incident report from the night he was found and is working to learn more, including when he went missing.

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