A man from Palm Harbor, Florida, aged 37, is facing second-degree murder charges for allegedly killing another man in a violent dispute over a borrowed car that wasn’t returned on time.
The suspect, Matthew Weldon, was arrested in connection with the death of Carroll Bryan, 49. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to a 911 call at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, after a neighbor reported that Weldon had admitted to murder.
Upon arriving at the scene, authorities found Weldon covered in blood. He allegedly informed deputies that “He is dead,” and directed them towards his house. Inside, deputies found Bryan on the rear patio with severe injuries to his head, neck, and arm. Bryan was declared dead at the scene.
An investigation showed that Weldon and Bryan had initially met at a local bar in Clearwater, Florida, two weeks prior to the incident. Their relationship seemed initially friendly, with Weldon agreeing to lend his car to Bryan a week before the incident. However, the situation escalated when Bryan failed to return the car as agreed.
According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office press release, “Bryan did not return the vehicle when he agreed to, and Weldon became upset.” On May 21, when Bryan did return the car, an argument ensued. Detectives believe that Bryan was on the rear patio when he was struck in the back of the head by Weldon. Bryan was subsequently assaulted multiple times while he was on the ground, resulting in fatal injuries.
A neighbor recounted the chilling moment when Weldon confessed to the crime. “He came to my door, covered in blood, and said he had killed someone. I immediately called 911,” the neighbor revealed.
During his initial court appearance, Weldon stated that he lacked the funds to hire a lawyer, despite living in a house worth nearly $2 million. Public records show that the property is owned by a trust. Weldon requested a public defender, stating, “I don’t have any money of my own.”
When the judge inquired about Weldon’s financial assets, such as cash, stocks, or bonds, Weldon responded, “Unfortunately, no.” He admitted to owning two vehicles, including a Jaguar, but claimed they were of little value and still being financed.
Local residents are reeling in shock from the incident. Jana Joyner, who lives opposite the crime scene, said, “This is a very quiet neighborhood. Very quiet, so [it’s] very strange.” Peg Mahara, a resident for 45 years, concurred: “I’ve been here 45 years. I’ve been here a long time, and there’s never been anything like this.”
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation into the circumstances leading to Bryan’s death. Weldon, who suffered minor injuries during the altercation, remains in custody at the Pinellas County Jail without bail.
