Pasco Sheriff updates homicide investigation, search continues for missing Hudson family

PASCO COUNTY, FL – The Pasco Sheriff's Office (PSO) held a press conference Saturday to address the recent discovery of human remains in Hiudon. This comes as the search continues for a missing family of 4 in the area.

Sheriff Chris Nocco said he could not yet confirm that the human remains were those of a missing family member, including Rain Mancini, Phillip Zilliot III, Karma Zilliot and Phillip Zilliot II.

A suspect, Rory Atwood, is in custody and his property is being searched.

Related: Endangered family of four missing in Hudson, Pasco deputies seek public's help

The investigation began after a series of events that began with an argument at suspect Rory Atwood's home Wednesday evening.

Friday afternoon, human remains, believed to be those of the missing family, were discovered on Atwood's property.

Atwood was charged with first-degree homicide based on statements he made and evidence collected. However, the identity of the remains has not yet been confirmed by the medical examiner.

The sheriff stressed the importance of the public's assistance in the ongoing investigation and urged anyone with information to contact the sheriff's office directly. He also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and acknowledged the difficulty of the case.

Key points:

• Human remains found: These would probably be those of the missing family.
• Suspect charged: Rory Atwood charged with first degree homicide.
• Ongoing investigation: The missing persons case remains open, leads are being followed.
• Public assistance needed: Anyone with information is asked to contact the sheriff's office.
• Difficult case: The sheriff expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.

Further information:

• The investigation began with a late report from the suspect's friends.
• Human remains were discovered with the assistance of K9 units and forensic teams.
• The investigation is complex and involves multiple agencies.
• The Sheriff's Office is committed to finding answers for families.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

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