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Jessie Kirk: Timeline of events in Florida woman's disappearance, death

By and
Updated  March 11, 2025 5:48am EDT
Brevard County
FOX 35 Orlando

Human remains identified as Jessie Kirk

Authorities say human remains discovered near Haulover Canal are those of missing Titusville woman Jessie Kirk.

The Brief

    • FOX 35 News has created a timeline outlining the events surrounding the disappearance and search for Jessie Kirk, a cherished member of the Titusville, Florida community.
    • Kirk's remains and her burned vehicle were found on the same day she was reported missing, March 4.
    • David Barber, the estranged boyfriend of Kirk's niece, is facing first-degree premeditated murder in Kirk's death.

TITUSVILLE, Fla. - The remains of Jessie Kirk were discovered in Brevard County, the same day the beloved Florida woman was reported missing by a friend after failing to show up for a morning walk, authorities said. David Barber, the 35-year-old estranged boyfriend of Kirk's niece, is facing first-degree murder in Kirk's death.

Here is a timeline outlining the events surrounding Kirk's disappearance, the search efforts, and the investigation into her murder:

Timeline:

  • March 3, 9 p.m. – March 4, 4:15 a.m.: Kirk’s white Lincoln SUV is recorded on surveillance footage in Titusville.
  • March 4, 8:30 a.m.: Titusville police launch a missing persons investigation after Kirk’s niece reports seeing a suspicious vehicle at her condo.
  • March 4, 9:36 a.m.: A vehicle fire is reported in Orange County near State Road 520 and State Road 50.
  • March 4, noon: Titusville detectives spot Barber near Kirk’s condo acting suspiciously. He was arrested on charges of loitering, prowling, and grand theft auto.
  • March 4, 1:09 p.m.: The burned vehicle in Orange County is identified as Kirk’s white Lincoln SUV.
  • March 4, 2:45 p.m.: Human remains are discovered at Haulover Canal, later confirmed to be Kirk’s.
  • March 10: Investigators announce new charges against Barber, including first-degree premeditated murder, arson, burglary, abuse of a dead human body, theft, and tampering with evidence.

The backstory:

Kirk, 72, was reported missing by a friend after she did not show up for her usual morning walk along S. Washington Avenue in Titusville – a departure from her routine.

During a search for Kirk, Titusville police said they encountered a "suspicious" man, later identified as Barber, near her condo. 

He was arrested on charges of loitering and prowling, with authorities observing significant recent burns on his body. Barber was also charged with grand theft of a motor vehicle, according to court records. He was later identified as a person of interest and eventually charged with her murder.

RELATED | Remains found 11 miles from missing Titusville woman's condo

Who was Jessie Kirk?

Kirk, a well-loved community member in Titusville, was active in local philanthropy and known for growing sunflowers and vegetables, which she donated to those in need. She and her late husband were both celebrated for their community contributions.

Jessie Kirk [Photo courtesy of Randall T. Coleman]

What they're saying:

"Jessie is a longtime resident of Titusville and North Brevard. She was a kind individual and had a gift to connect to anyone and everyone she met," said Titusville Police Commander Tyler Wright.

Kirk’s best friend, Sharon James, described her grief and frustration.

"Our hearts fell to the pit of our souls… Jessie was no one that looked for notoriety. She was the quietest, kindest, giving soul. Therefore, that’s why so much has to be done to help find her, find what happened."

RELATED | Friends of murdered Titusville woman reflect on her life, police work to piece together timeline

What happened to Jessie Kirk?

What we don't know:

Investigators have not publicly disclosed the exact nature of Barber’s motive for the crime. The circumstances surrounding Kirk’s disappearance remain unclear, including whether the two had prior interactions. 

Authorities have not said how Barber traveled between the locations where Kirk’s car and remains were found. Police are investigating whether he used a ride-share service, hitchhiked, or had another means of transportation. Officials are also seeking additional witnesses who may have seen Barber in the area on March 4.

What's next:

Authorities continue to investigate Barber’s role in Kirk’s disappearance. 

Barber remains in custody with no bond. 

FOX 35 News will update this story as new details are released.

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The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Titusville Police Department. Additional details were provided by friends who knew Kirk.

Brevard CountyNewsCrime and Public Safety