State Seeks Death Penalty for David Barber in Jessie Kirk Murder

Prosecutors in Brevard County, Florida, have announced they will seek the death penalty against David Barber, a former corrections deputy, who has been charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping, and several other offenses in connection with the death of 72-year-old Jessie Kirk. Kirk, a well-known Titusville resident, was reported missing on March 4 and later found dead under suspicious circumstances, with her remains discovered burned in her vehicle and nearby areas. Authorities cite multiple aggravating factors for pursuing capital punishment, including financial gain, the especially heinous and premeditated nature of the crime, and a lack of moral or legal justification. Barber was identified early in the investigation after being found near Kirk's condominium with burns on his body, and he was later indicted on nine charges by a grand jury. The motive for the killing has not yet been established, and several details about the relationship between Barber and Kirk remain unclear. Barber is currently being held without bond while the investigation continues.