FL - Elderly woman stabbed to death while walking dog - Martin County, 2 April 2026

[Clearsky]

https://people.com/elderly-woman-stabbed-to-death-in-unprovoked-attack-while-walking-dog-florida-11942854

Kersten Francilus, 25, was arrested on Thursday, April 2 and charged with first-degree premeditated murder, according to online records for the Martin County Jail viewed by PEOPLE.

 

[PatLaurel]

Suspect was 'approaching residences,' tried entering home before 73-year-old woman fatally stabbed

Investigators spoke with the suspect's mother, who confirmed the serrated knife used in the attack came from their home. She told detectives she usually stored the knives above the microwave to "essentially hide them" from her son.

His mother also told investigators her son had not taken his medication since February.

The sheriff's office noted the family had contacted deputies about Francilus some time ago.

 

[tlcya]

The victim was identified as Joyce Ellen Thompson Adams, 73, who lived across the street from where the attack occurred.
Affidavit: Suspect off medication in random deadly stabbing; used knife from home

I could not locate an obituary for Joyce. RIP