UPDATE: A Florida man has been sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, Nancy Howery, whom he dismembered and attempted to burn after a violent argument. Daniel Stearns, 32, was convicted of second-degree murder, abuse of a dead human body, and tampering with evidence in a chilling case that unfolded in Palm Bay.
The guilty verdict comes after Howery, a 44-year-old mother of two, was reported missing on February 18, 2023, when her ex-husband noted she failed to pick up their children from school. She was last seen alive just three days earlier on February 15, 2023, telling a friend she was meeting Stearns.
Investigators from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office quickly launched a probe into Stearns, leading them to a wooded area known as “the Compound.” In a shocking twist, authorities observed Stearns attempting to dispose of evidence. He was detained by the Game Over Task Force while officials uncovered the remains of Howery scattered across multiple crime scenes.
During a heated argument on the day of her death, Stearns fatally shot Howery. In a gruesome act, he dismembered her body, burned it, and buried the remains in various locations over several days. Prosecutor Samantha Barrett stated, “He was angry at Ms. Howery. He was jealous because she was seeing other men and their relationship was not exclusive.”
The emotional aftermath of this horrific crime resonated during the sentencing. Howery’s husband, Todd Howery, expressed profound grief, describing Stearns’ actions as “demented and defective,” emphasizing that it was not merely a murder but a “savage slaughter.”
In addition to his life sentence for murder, Stearns received an extra 22 years for the abuse of a dead human body and tampering with evidence. This case has shocked the local community, and the emotional toll on Howery’s family is immeasurable.
As details continue to emerge, the case raises critical questions about relationship dynamics and the potential for violence in intimate partnerships. Authorities urge anyone in similar situations to seek help and resources to ensure safety.
Stay tuned for more updates as this case develops and follow us for the latest news.
