An 81-year-old man was found dead Sunday in a Bartow group home, prompting a homicide investigation with his roommate, Moses Ojeda, as the suspect, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Patrick Benway was discovered in his bedroom at a facility operated by ET Care on Bluebird Avenue. Authorities said he had been stabbed more than 100 times.
Sheriff Grady Judd confirmed that Ojeda, who had just moved into the home a day prior, was arrested for the killing. Ojeda, one of Benway’s roommates, had recently been released from a local hospital.
Investigators said Ojeda entered Benway’s room while he was resting and attacked him. According to officials, Benway did not resist but asked, “Why would you want to do this to me?” before succumbing to his injuries.
Ojeda later told detectives he had no remorse, claiming he acted because Benway was “already dying.” After the stabbing, he reportedly cleaned the knife, returned it to the kitchen, and hid his bloody clothes.
Per ClickOrlando, authorities said the evidence supported Moses Ojeda’s confession. He now faces charges of first-degree murder and tampering with evidence. Deputies confirmed Ojeda had no prior criminal history.
#Clique, what are your thoughts on this inhumane act?
