Investigators said Tuesday that a car driven by a man wanted in connection to the Sumter County homicide of a 16-year-old girl has been recovered.

The vehicle, a 1997 Nissan Sentra thought to be driven by 35-year-old Larry Darnell Peavy, was found in St. Lucie County, Sumter County Sheriff's officials said. Deputies said the vehicle was at a Fort Pierce home.

Authorities say Peavy left before they got there.

Peavy is wanted in connection to the slaying of a 16-year-old girl over the weekend. According to authorities, a 16-year-old friend of the slain girl reported to the Tavares Police Department that Peavy attacked and sexually assaulted her and her friend at his rental home.

When investigators arrived at the rental home Sunday, they found Aleaya Jackson dead, officials stated.


Tavares Police Department says that 16-year-old Aleaya Jackson was sexually assaulted and killed by Larry Darnell Peavy. (The Jackson Family)

Jackson's Dad, Michael Lee Jenkins, says he didn't know his daughter was going to a party. 

"I’m going to miss her coming over and giving my mom hugs and telling her she loved them," said Jenkins. 

"She has the ability to make people smile and laugh, even when they’re having the worst days," he added.  

Jenkins said ​his daughter knew Peavy and said her Mom trusted him and called him "Uncle Larry."

Sumter Sheriff's investigators are still looking for Peavy and think he may still be in the Fort Pierce area.

Peavy has a lengthy criminal history. He was previously charged with possession of cannabis, battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest with violence.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).

There will be a prayer vigil for Jackson Wednesday at 7 p.m. at St. James Baptist Church at 421 S. Lincoln Street in Bushnell. 

There will also be a candlelight vigil Saturda​y from 5:30 p.m.  to 6:30 p.m. at Ferran Park in Eustis. 

Friends have set up a GoFundMe here: https://www.gofundme.com/home-going-for-aleaya-jackson