JSO: Search for 21-month-old turns into murder investigation

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The search for missing 21-month-old Lonzie Barton entered day five, and police have searched many areas on the Southside.

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Chief Tom Hackney announced that the missing person case for Barton is now being looked at as a murder investigation.

Officials expanded the search to include the Greenland Road area behind the Christ’s Church.

Police have received more than 200 tips in the case. Those tips as well as evidence have led officials to numerous spots on the Southside including wooded areas and bodies of water.

Barton’s caregiver at the time, Ruben Ebron, has been named a suspect in the disappearance. Ebron is currently in police custody.

More than 200 officers from different agencies have been assisting in the search.

JSO searched dumpsters in the area. Officers also asked businesses in certain areas to stop pick up and not to use it while officials search for Barton.

JSO released a statement saying they appreciate the donations of food, drink and supplies they have received. If anyone would like to help, contact the JSO volunteer and donation liaison at 904-314-6940.

"Citizen support is crazy. The involvement we have had has been so overwhelming," Hackney said.

JSO said the search will continue on a 24-hour basis.

Anyone who has any information regarding Barton’s whereabouts is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 866-845-TIPS. You can remain anonymous and receive a possible reward of up to $3,000.

WJAX