Preston Burnett, 29, was found dead on May 10, 2017, in the woods near the former Skyview Golf Course after a passerby discovered his body about 5:30 p.m. Polk County Sheriff’s Office investigators concluded Burnett had been violently murdered and ordered an autopsy to determine the official cause of death.

Authorities say Burnett had been seen in downtown Auburndale shortly before his death and told his ex-girlfriend he feared being found by certain individuals, prompting investigators to conclude he had been targeted and followed. The probe led to the arrests of Christopher Clardy, 39, and Jamie Jamo Garst, 30, who were charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; Garst also faced a tampering with evidence charge.

Police reported Clardy and Garst had an earlier altercation with Burnett. Investigators recovered a keychain with photos at the scene that was linked to Garst, surveillance showed Garst’s vehicle in the area, and Garst admitted involvement and provided a video of the shooting in which Clardy can be heard threatening Burnett. Clardy later confessed after hearing an audio recording. The motive was described as a personal dispute with Clardy saying Burnett had mistreated his family.

If anyone knew Burnett’s movements in Auburndale or who might have seen him near Skyview Golf Course on May 10, please come forward with information.