A joint operation led by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force successfully captured a violent fugitive who had been on the run from the law.

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Joseph Walker, a 29-year-old man wanted in connection with a violent murder in Virginia, was arrested in the early morning hours of April 20th.

The arrest follows the discovery of 20-year-old Ethan Bert’s remains in Bedford County, Virginia, according to Roanoke television station WDBJ.

Bert, who hailed from York, was found inside a burning car on Sandy Level Road in the early morning hours of April 18th. Firefighters dispatched to a 12:45 a.m. fire call extinguished the “fully engulfed” vehicle and discovered Bert’s body inside.

During Walker’s arrest, two stolen firearms and a large bag of marijuana were seized by law enforcement officers.

Walker’s criminal history includes distribution of marijuana, distribution of marijuana while in possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

The operation, which resulted in Walker’s arrest, was lauded as a testament to the cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

U.S. Marshal for the Middle District of Florida, William Berger Sr., praised the collaborative effort, saying, “The arrest of Mr. Walker serves as a prime example of the cooperation of federal, state and local law enforcement working together to make Florida communities safer.”

He went on to commend the dedication of law enforcement officers, stating, “I’m extremely proud of the men and women who dedicate themselves daily to the service of their fellow citizens.”