Detectives Investigate an Apparent Murder-Suicide in Unincorporated St. Petersburg (24-055)

UNINCORPORATED ST. PETERSBURG - Detectives assigned to the Robbery/Homicide Unit and the Crimes Against Children Unit are investigating an apparent murder-suicide involving two juveniles.

On 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 deceased, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Deputies also located 17-year-old Hector Pfeiffer , with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Pfeiffer was transported to the hospital and pronounced deceased at 10:16 p.m.

Throughout the course of the investigation, detectives learned the homeowner, 26-year-old Derek Pobuta, is out of town and Pfeiffer was temporarily staying at the residence to watch his dog. Detectives say at approximately 4:00 a.m. on April 20, 2024, Pfeiffer invited Ruiz and another female to the residence to hang out, both of whom he met on a social media app approximately month ago. Pfeiffer’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, Pfeiffer 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 Pfeiffer had, and he became upset. Detectives say Ruiz was speaking to the other female regarding the argument when Pfeiffer approached Ruiz and pointed the gun at her head and shot her. Detectives say Pfeiffer 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.

Summary: 

Hector Pfeiffer (Suspect - Deceased)
DOB: 06/19/2006
Address: 6453 Augusta Boulevard, Seminole

Sayuri Jade Ruiz (Victim - Deceased)
DOB: 07/29/2009
Address: 5631 Chipper Drive, New Port Richey

Alex Spasiano (Witness)
DOB: 10/20/2005
Address: 618 73rd Avenue #140, St. Pete Beach

Derek Pobuta (Homeowner)
DOB: 12/12/1997
Address: 2685 Grove Park Avenue North, Unincorporated St. Petersburg