Crystal Pena, 36, was found shot to death inside her Bradenton home in the early morning hours of October 10, 2025. Deputies were dispatched to the 6800 block of 26th Street West after a man who had driven an acquaintance to Pena’s residence reported hearing multiple gunshots around 1:20 a.m. When Manatee County deputies arrived they discovered Pena deceased.

Investigators identified the suspected gunman as Cesar Cortes, 28, described as Pena’s ex-boyfriend. The witness said Cortes had asked for a ride to her home; after shots were heard Cortes fled and the two men returned to Wimauma. Cortes was located and taken into custody by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at approximately 7:40 a.m., and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office announced he was charged with murder. Detectives said the investigation remained active as Cortes faced the charge.

Does anyone in the Bradenton area have information about Pena, her movements that night, or the people who left her home shortly after the shooting?