Lover Arrested in Florida Nurse's Brutal Slaying

Linda Campitelli, a 35-year-old Florida nurse, was discovered deceased on a Lantana road in October 2024, shortly after celebrating her birthday. Authorities responding to emergency calls found her unresponsive and bleeding profusely, with signs of a violent struggle. The investigation, which spanned over a year, led to the arrest of Rene J. Perez, 38, who was identified as Campitelli's lover.

Evidence presented by the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office includes recovered phone records showing regular communication and intimate photos between Campitelli and Perez. Text exchanges indicated Campitelli's nervousness about their birthday meeting, while Perez allegedly attempted to portray his romantic gestures. Campitelli's body bore severe injuries, including a head gash and bruising, with apparent drag marks.

Campitelli was described by her family as a devoted nurse and mother. Perez has been charged with first-degree murder with a deadly weapon and tampering with physical evidence. Authorities allege his statements to investigators were inconsistent with the evidence gathered, though a specific motive has not been immediately revealed.