Breaking News Update 10:55am:
Detectives worked with Sanford Police Department and Seminole County Sheriff’s Office as Al Joseph Stenson fled to Slumberland Motel in Sanford, Florida. Stenson made statements that he would kill himself or force law enforcement to kill him. After hours long standoff involving crisis negotiation and SWAT, interactions ended in an officer involved shooting. Stenson was pronounced deceased at the scene. This case remains an active investigation and is ongoing. Law enforcement requests anyone with information regarding this case as it relates to Lake Wales, to contact Detective Ricky Hartwell at 863-678-4223.
Any inquiries revolving around the activities at SlumberlandMotel need to be directed to Sanford Police Department or Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.
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News Update 6:51am –
Detectives were able to determine Al Joseph Stenson murdered a mother and her three children early yesterday morning. Detectives have obtained an arrest warrant for Stenson on four counts of 1st degree murder. They have located Stensen and are actively working to take him into custody.
During this investigation, Detectives determined Stenson shot the victims in an apartment then fled immediately thereafter at approximately 5 AM. It was not until 8:51 PM on May 2 that law enforcement was notified when the victims were discovered by family members. The motive for the murders is unknown, however the victims and the suspect knew each other. We will not be releasing the names of the victims at this time due to Marsy’s Law.
We will provide additional updates as they become available. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
—————— Original Press Release —————
Mother and Three Children Killed
Police Actively Investigating
On Tuesday, May 2 at approximately 8:51 PM, officers responded to Dawnligt Drive in Sunrise Apartments in regards to a medical call. Officers arrived on scene and found a mother and her three children, one adult and two juveniles, dead from apparent gunshot wounds. Officers are looking for Al Stenson, age 38 of Lake Wales. Officers believe he may live at the apartment, and could be injured as well. If anyone knows Mr. Stenson‘s whereabouts, please contact Lake Wales Police Department immediately at 863-678-4223 or dial 911.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact DetectiveRicky Hartwell with the Lake Wales Police Department at 863-678-4223. Or, if you would like to stay anonymous and be eligible for a CASH REWARD through Heartland Crime Stoppers:
• Call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477)
• From your cell phone, dial **TIPS
• Visit the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on “Submit A Tip,”
• Or download the free “P3tips” app on your smartphone or tablet.
