DeBary, FL - The son of a woman found dead in her home is now facing a first-degree murder charge for her death.
The Volusia Sheriff’s Office apprehended David Rivera late Wednesday (Feb. 9) in front of a Save-A-Lot store in Deltona. Rivera was linked to the homicide using a rapid DNA analysis system that helped investigators connect him to the murder using blood found on his clothing.
Spontaneous statements Rivera made to detectives also implicated him in his mother’s death, along with other evidence found at the scene.
His mother, who has since been identified as Belgica Rivera, was found dead in her Sunrise Boulevard home on Wednesday. Deputies that responded to the home found signs of a struggle and a large amount of blood. Investigators believe she was killed using an edged weapon.
Investigators later learned through interviews that she had been in an argument with her sons about three days prior to her death. They also learned Rivera has a history of violence and threatening behavior towards his mother.
Some of Rivera’s previous arrests include an incident in 2016 where, after an argument with his mother, Rivera climbed up a tree and killed his mother’s dog by hanging it. He also threatened to hang himself, but he was taken into custody after an 8-hour standoff. He was also charged with felony cruelty to animals.
Rivera remains in jail as of this morning with no bond, charged with first-degree murder.
