Massive Search in Vero Lake Estates for Missing Man, Foul Play Suspected

A massive search is underway in Vero Lake Estates (VLE) for John Robert Spencer, 41. Foul play is suspected in his disappearance. 

Spencer’s mother contacted the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday to report her son missing after he didn’t return home.

As of Wednesday morning, the IRCSO had 40 units and a helicopter searching in the VLE community to assist in finding Spencer, who was last seen in the 8600 block of 95th Avenue on Tuesday afternoon, and where his vehicle was located.

The Sheriff’s Department has Scott Hodges, a person of interest, in custody on stolen property charges. They recovered several weapons during their Tuesday night investigation.

“We believe that foul play was involved in this case, and so our missing man is possibly out here in the Vero Lake Estates area. Certainly about drug use, which leads us to believe that there is a possible overdose involved,” Flowers stated during a press conference at the IRCSO. 

“We’re concerned that we are searching for a body, unfortunately, Flowers added.

Spencer is a white male with brown hair and blue eyes.

If you have any information about Spencer’s whereabouts, please contact Detective Thimmer at (772) 978-6188. Or remain anonymous and eligible for a cash reward by calling Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 273-8477, or visit www.TCWatch.org, or submit a tip through its app, P3 Tips.