Teen Arrested in Clearwater Woman's Death

Clearwater Police have charged a teenager in the death of the woman found Saturday near the Pinellas Trail.

Police say Dewayne Xavier Jones, 18, of Clearwater was booked into the Pinellas County Jail early Tuesday morning on a charge of first-degree murder in the death of Lydia Ann Tross, 41. Robbery is believed to be the motive in the case, an email from police spokesman Rob Shaw said.

Detectives were led to Jones by a family member of his who alerted them to finding items that belonged to Tross in the teen’s possession, Shaw wrote.

Tross was reported missing Aug. 5, but her body was not found until Aug. 9.

Jones has been arrested in the past, Shaw wrote. Back in July, he was arrested on charges of possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana and obstructing or resisting an officer without violence. He was released on bond just two days later, Shaw noted.

This time, however, no bond has been set.

Although Jones is behind bars, police say the investigation continues. They’re asking for anyone with information about Tross’ death to call them at 727-562-4242. Tips can also be emailed to tips@myclearwater.com.

Photo Credit: Dewayne Xavier Jones/Courtesy of the Clearwater Police Department