Titusville Police announced Monday that David A. Barber, 35, has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder in the death of 72-year-old Jessie Kirk, a local woman reported missing earlier this month.

Barber, who lists addresses in West Palm Beach and Winter Haven, faces additional charges including arson, burglary, abuse of a dead human body, theft, and evidence tampering.

The charges were added while Barber was already incarcerated at Brevard County Jail for grand theft auto and loitering and prowling following his March 4 arrest.

Case Background and Arrest
Kirk, described by friends as a “creature of habit,” was reported missing on March 4 after failing to attend her daily morning walk. Surveillance footage from Titusville’s Apollo Landings Apartments, across the street from Kirk’s home, captured Barber driving her white Lincoln Navigator that same morning. Witnesses reported seeing Barber engaging in “musical cars,” shuffling his maroon SUV and Kirk’s vehicle in the parking lot.

Later that day, Orange County deputies discovered Kirk’s Navigator torched near State Roads 50 and 520. A witness reported seeing a man with burns on his right arm fleeing the scene. Barber, who sustained fresh first- and second-degree burns on his right arm, was arrested hours later near 120 Court St. after evading police. When questioned about his presence near Kirk’s apartment, Barber stated, “I don’t feel I should answer that at this time.”

Discovery of Kirk’s Body and Additional Charges
Following Barber’s initial arrest, Kirk’s body was discovered near Haulover Canal. The Brevard County Medical Examiner confirmed her identity, prompting detectives to pursue homicide charges. On March 10, prosecutors formally charged Barber with murder and related crimes.

“This collaborative effort has been instrumental in securing these charges and moving one step closer to justice for Jessie’s family,” said Detective Sergeant Bryan Nelson, praising the combined efforts of law enforcement and community tips.

Key Evidence and Motive
Court documents reveal Barber had a “contentious” relationship with Kirk’s niece, though a motive remains unclear. Detectives linked him to the crime through surveillance footage, witness accounts, and forensic evidence from the burned SUV. Notably, Barber’s burns matched the witness description of the suspect seen fleeing the arson scene—a detail not publicly disclosed before his arrest.

Timeline of Events

• March 3: Kirk last seen alive.
• March 4, 9 a.m.: Reported missing after missing her walk.
• March 4, morning: Barber captured on camera driving Kirk’s SUV.
• March 4, afternoon: SUV found burned in Orange County.
• March 4, evening: Barber arrested for grand theft auto and loitering.
• March 5: Affidavit filed, upgrading charges.
• March 10: Murder and additional charges announced.

Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to analyze forensic evidence and search for further connections. Barber, held without bond, is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on March 12.

Public Appeal
Titusville Police urge anyone with information about Barber or Kirk’s SUV between March 3–4 to contact 321-567-3900 or CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-TIPS.