Two homicides still under investigation

SOUTH VENICE — Authorities are still investigating two recent homicides in South Venice.

On April 22, Patrick A. Warrick, 42, was found slain outside a business in the area of the 3900 block of South Tamiami Trail between Jacaranda Road and State Road 776.

On April 30, Leanna M. Leach, 20, was found inside her residence in the 300 block of Cowry Road.

Warrick’s investigation began about 2 a.m. April 22; the cause of his death has not been disclosed.

Leach’s investigation began about 11:36 p.m. April 30; Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched in regard to a shooting at that location.

In both cases, few details have been released.

Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office stated Friday investigations remain underway.

“It appears there was an altercation where (Warrick) was killed,” a public information officer stated in an email to The Daily Sun. “We are currently processing forensic evidence, which takes time. We are hoping that will lead to identifying a subject. We believe this is an isolated incident.”

The address is in a small business plaza along the road. The death investigation was concentrated in front of Layla Nails & Spa; Midnight Clouds Smoke Shop and a coin shop between the two.

Leach’s residence, about a mile away from Warrick’s homicide, is along Cowry Road in South Venice is in the middle of a long stretch of quiet homes in the neighborhood.

“At this time there is no additional information to provide on the Leach incident,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “Our detectives are working diligently to solve all cases.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the Criminal Investigation Section at 941-861-4900, or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 941-366-8477, or write online at CrimeStoppers.com.