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- calendar_today October 27, 2026
DeBary Resident Charged with Wife's Murder Following Disappearance
A DeBary man has been charged with first-degree murder after an extensive missing persons investigation into his wife’s disappearance. The Volusia Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of Epifanio IX Ramos Gaminde following a grand jury indictment related to the suspicious absence of his wife, Maria Gaminde.
Missing Persons Case Sparks Deception Investigation
The case began in January 2024, when Maria Gaminde’s family reported her missing due to a lack of confirmed contact. Epifanio IX Ramos Gaminde, her husband, told authorities she had left their DeBary residence voluntarily and was now living overseas. However, the authenticity of subsequent text messages and communications believed to be from Maria soon came under scrutiny, as her loved ones raised concerns that these messages did not appear genuine.
Law Enforcement and Grand Jury Indictment
The Volusia Sheriff’s Office, working closely with the State Attorney’s Office for Florida’s 7th Judicial Circuit, launched an extensive investigation into the missing persons case. Suspicion deepened as detectives uncovered evidence that suggested a calculated effort to deceive Maria’s friends, family, and law enforcement. The evidence indicated attempts to make it appear that Maria was alive, well, and intentionally avoiding contact.
Based on these findings, a grand jury indicted Epifanio IX Ramos Gaminde, resulting in him being formally charged with first degree murder. He was subsequently arrested and taken into custody.
International Investigation Involving Multiple Agencies
The investigation expanded internationally as detectives collaborated with federal agencies and partners in Japan and the Philippines. Officials from both the Volusia Sheriff’s Office and the State Attorney’s Office traveled to the Philippines to gather evidence and conduct interviews, according to the sheriff’s office news release. This international investigation was instrumental in collecting evidence relevant to the criminal case and the charges now faced by the suspect.
Current Status of the Suspect and the Case
Epifanio IX Ramos Gaminde is currently being held without bond in the Volusia County Branch Jail. In addition to the murder charge, he is subject to an immigration detainer issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
As of the latest update, Maria Gaminde’s body has not been recovered. Deputies indicated that more information will be provided as the case develops. The investigation remains ongoing, and the public is advised to await official updates from law enforcement.
Developing Story in Volusia County
The charged domestic homicide underscores ongoing law enforcement efforts to investigate missing persons cases and pursue justice even when human remains have not been located. This criminal case, marked by its international scope and allegations of deception, continues as authorities seek further answers regarding Maria Gaminde’s disappearance.
Source: clickorlando.com.
