A puzzling murder case in Miami is believed to somehow involve three people from the Midwest.
Police are searching for a link between a man found dead in a Miami motel room and a fugitive on the run.
Officers found the body of 46-year-old Joseph Moniz at the Sunshine Inn Motel on Saturday. According to the motel manager, Moniz was not a registered guest.
According to police, a fugitive from Ohio checked into the same motel room on May 29th before fleeing with his wife and her daughter.
Police believe a seven-year-old Jala Barnett and her mother Kristy Evans are with Michael Evans, 30, who is wanted out of Ohio.
Florida's missing endangered persons information clearinghouse has issued a missing child alert for Jala.
"At this point exactly how long or in which room they were staying is being looked into but there is definitely a link to the hotel with this couple and child," said Lt. Carlos Castellanos of the Miami Police Department.
Investigators shared photos of Michael, Kristy and Jala, hoping someone will recognize them.
Ohio authorities reported Kristy and Jala as missing and in danger. Michael is wanted for escaping house arrest.
Reports show he was charged with assault and aggravated burglary in eastern Ohio in March.
"During the efforts to get info about what happened it was discovered that Evans is a fugitive from Ohio and has a warrant for escape," Castellanos said.
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Police say the trio is in a stolen car, a blue Audi convertible, with a license plate of BDK-6156.
Detectives couldn't say if the Audi belonged to Moniz, but they are eager to find it.
"At a business, cafeteria, restaurant, anywhere, anyone with any info about seeing any of the individuals pictures we will release today, contact us," Castellanos said.
A reward of up to $3,000 is being offered in the case. If you spot any of these individuals call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.
Anyone with information on Jala's wherabouts is asked to contact FDLE or the Miami Police Department at 305-603-6350.
