Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office detectives are conducting a homicide investigation in Palm Harbor.
At approximately 3:36 p.m., on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, deputies responded to 302 Shore Drive in Palm Harbor after a 911 caller stated his neighbor told him that he killed someone.
When deputies arrived on the scene, they located the suspect, 37-year-old Matthew Weldon, in front of the residence covered in blood. Weldon told deputies, “He is dead,” and pointed towards the residence.
Deputies then discovered the victim, later identified as 49-year-old Carroll Bryan of St. Petersburg, lying on the back patio of the residence, suffering from multiple blunt force/sharp injuries to his head, neck, and arm. Bryan was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Throughout the investigation, detectives learned Weldon and Bryan met at a local bar in Clearwater approximately two weeks ago. Weldon offered to help Bryan and loaned him his vehicle about one week ago. Bryan did not return the vehicle when he agreed, and Weldon became upset.
Detectives say Bryan arrived at the residence with Weldon’s vehicle on May 21, 2024, and they argued. According to witnesses, the arguing went on throughout the day.
Detectives say that based on the evidence at the scene, it appears that Bryan was on the rear patio of the residence when he was struck in the back of the head. Bryan was then struck repeatedly while on the ground, causing additional injuries.
Weldon sustained minor injuries.
Weldon was charged with Murder in the Second Degree and transported to the Pinellas County Jail.
Next of kin has been notified.
The investigation continues