Florida Teenager Kidnapped and Murdered by Couple in St. Petersburg -

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S.t. Petersburg, FL, March 10, 2025:

A Florida teenager was allegedly lured through social media, kidnapped, and murdered by a couple, authorities confirmed.

Steven Gress, 35, and Michelle Brandes, 37, have been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 16-year-old Miranda Corsette. As per St. Petersburg Police Department, Gress was already in custody on unrelated charges, while Brandes turned herself in on Saturday morning.

Corsette first encountered Gress through a social media platform and met him in person on February 14. Initially, she returned home after their first meeting but went back the following day and remained with Gress and Brandes. Authorities believe that a dispute between the three led to Corsette’s murder sometime between February 20 and 24.

Corsette was reported missing to the Gulfport Police Department on February 24. Nearly two weeks later, on March 6, a witness came forward with critical information regarding a possible kidnapping and homicide involving the missing teenager. This led authorities to intensify their investigation.

Detectives allege that after killing Corsette, Gress transported her body to a home in Largo. Evidence suggests that her remains were dismembered before being transported to Hillsborough County and disposed of in a dumpster. Investigators have since located the dumpster and are actively working to recover her remains.

At the time of his arrest on March 5, Gress was already facing charges for an unrelated incident where he allegedly pointed a harpoon at Brandes and was found in possession of illegal drugs. The authorities have not yet disclosed the exact nature of the dispute that led to Corsette’s death.

St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway described the case as “deeply disturbing” and emphasized the dangers posed by online interactions with strangers. “This is a tragic reminder that predators exist online, and we urge parents to monitor their children’s social media activity,” Holloway stated.

Authorities continue to investigate the full scope of the crime, and forensic teams are working to gather evidence that may further implicate the suspects. Both Gress and Brandes remain in custody, awaiting their court appearances.