January 23, 2024 – Port Charlotte, FL

Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office

A body, which had been discovered in the woods near Guild St. last week, has been positively identified as the remains of wanted homicide suspect Fidel Fletcher.

On the afternoon of Friday, January 19, deputies responded to the area of Guild St. and Peachland Blvd. to investigate a body which had been discovered by a resident of the area. The remains were already in a state of decomposition, making an immediate identification impossible. The Major Case Unit conducted an investigation, and the body has been positively identified as Fidel Fletcher (10/01/1977). Evidence at the scene suggests that Fletcher took his own life; however, the cause and manner of death are pending at this time.

A warrant had been issued for Fletcher in connection with the December 26, 2023 murder of his wife, Nicole Gates. Fletcher fled on foot before deputies could arrive to the scene, prompting a statewide search, as tips received by the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Marshal’s Service suggested that he was in hiding in both the DeSoto and Hillsborough County areas.

“I know that this outcome does not bring justice to the friends and family of Nicole, but I hope that it at least brings closure. And to the children who witnessed this horrific incident, I offer my deepest sympathies and this message: Please do not lose sight of what your mother would have wanted for you. Honor her by living a good life and by being a beacon for others who may one day be hurting as you are now. Charlotte County is with you.”

SHERIFF BILL PRUMMELL