Detectives from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office are investigating an apparent murder suicide involving two juveniles.
On Saturday, April 20, 2024, at approximately 8:47 p.m., deputies responded to 2685 Grove Park Avenue North in Unincorporated St. Petersburg, after a 911 call was received reporting a male and a female had been shot.
Once deputies arrived on scene, they located 14-year-old Sayuri Jade Ruiz of New Port Richey deceased, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Deputies also located 17-year-old Hector Phieffer of Seminole with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Phieffer was transported to the hospital and pronounced deceased at 10:16 p.m.
Throughout the investigation, detectives learned the homeowner, 26-year-old Derek Pobuta, is out of town, and Pheiffer temporarily stays at the residence to watch his dog. Detectives say at approximately 4:00 a.m.
On April 20, 2024, Pheiffer invited Ruiz and another female to the residence to hang out, both of whom he met on a social media app approximately a month ago. Pheiffer’s friend, 18-year-old Alex Spasiano, also arrived at the residence, and they consumed alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine throughout the day.
According to detectives, Pheiffer began brandishing a firearm belonging to Pobuta. Detectives learned they all began playing with the firearm and taking photos with it. A verbal altercation ensued regarding a consensual sexual encounter Phieffer had, and he became upset. Detectives say Ruiz was speaking to the other female regarding the argument when Pheiffer approached Ruiz, pointed the gun at her head, and shot her. Detectives say Pheiffer then shot himself in the head.
An autopsy will be conducted, and the Medical Examiner’s Office will work to determine the cause and manner of death.
Next of kin has been notified.
The investigation continues.