Ellenton Man Charged with Murder in Fatal Overdose Case
A Manatee County man is facing a murder charge months after a fatal overdose investigation that began in October, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
Toby Davis, 44, was initially arrested on charges including possession with intent to sell, tampering with evidence, and possession of drug paraphernalia following the death of 41-year-old Jonathan Watson.
Deputies responded to the 400 block of Sunset Circle North on Oct. 28, where Watson was found dead from a suspected overdose. During the investigation, detectives uncovered evidence indicating cocaine use and obtained text messages showing Watson had arranged to purchase drugs from Davis.
Investigators used Watson’s phone to coordinate a meeting with Davis the following day. When Davis arrived at the residence, authorities reported that he attempted to discard approximately 4.1 grams of cocaine after noticing law enforcement nearby. He was taken into custody and found to have additional cocaine.
According to investigators, Davis admitted to selling cocaine to Watson the day before his death and allowed detectives access to his cellphone as part of the investigation.
Following his initial arrest, detectives continued to build the case with assistance from the medical examiner and toxicology reports. Authorities said those findings established probable cause linking Davis to Watson’s death.
Davis was arrested on Longboat Key on March 20 and is now charged with murder by distribution of a controlled substance.
