OAKLAND PARK, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy accused of killing 14-year-old Jordan Dowdy in Oakland Park faces a first-degree murder charge in Broward County.
Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies identified the suspect as Ruben Whitworth, who they said stabbed Jordan during a fight on Monday at a house along Northeast Third Avenue, between 53rd Court and 56th Street.
BSO homicide detectives arrested Ruben, who turned 16 on July 31, and corrections processed his detention at the Juvenile Assessment Center.
Kerry Pittillo and Akyra Gulley are among the neighbors who said the house operates as a group home for boys -- some of whom are so troubled that they have made threats to hurt and kill vulnerable neighbors and pets.
“Police have been out here several times,” Pittillo said.
On Monday, Gulley was heartbroken when Jordan, who she said was one of the few boys in the home who was respectful to his neighbors, was covered in blood, as Oakland Park Fire Rescue paramedics tried to save his life.
BSO deputies reported Jordan died in the hospital. The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice released Ruben’s mugshot on Tuesday afternoon. His next court hearing is on Sept. 27.
Detectives asked anyone with information about this or other cases to call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477 to remain anonymous.
Local 10 News Assignment Editor Carson Merlo contributed to this report.
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