A woman whose body was discovered behind a Bradenton residence has been identified as 44-year-old Starr Lashua, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
Lashua was found Aug. 24 in the backyard of a residence in the 700 block of 59th Avenue East. When her body was discovered, investigators reported that it was in an advanced state of decomposition.
An autopsy has since determined that Lashua died as a result of homicidal violence. The sheriff’s office has not released details about the manner in which she was killed, citing the ongoing investigation.
Detectives with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Investigation Unit have identified a person of interest in the case and are actively working to develop charges.
As of Wednesday, no arrest had been announced, and investigators have not publicly identified the person of interest.
The investigation remains active.
Anyone with information about Lashua’s death is asked to contact the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at 941-747-3011. Those wishing to remain anonymous and potentially qualify for a cash reward can contact Manatee County Crime Stoppers at 866-634-TIPS or visit ManateeCrimeStoppers.com.