The lifeless body of Jonathan Scibica, a boxer and co-owner of a gym in Fort Lauderdale, was discovered inside his truck, which was found submerged in a canal, as reported by Broward County authorities on Monday.
According to a statement shared on social media platform X by the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO), detectives from the Missing Persons Unit confirmed that Scibica, 35, was found dead in his vehicle. The truck was located in a water body near the 900 block of NW 63rd Court, and the circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation.
As per Telemundo's reports, Scibica was reported missing on Saturday, having last been seen exiting Cheers Bar, located at 941 E Cypress Creek Road, around 4:00 AM on Friday. Friends and family mentioned that he was believed to be driving a gray Honda Ridgeline.
During a search conducted on Sunday, officers found the truck in a canal within a quiet residential neighborhood largely inhabited by senior citizens. While neighbors expressed concern over the incident, they declined to comment on camera.
Upon retrieving the vehicle from the water, rescuers confirmed Scibica's body was inside. The scene was secured as a yellow tarp covered the truck's windshield during the recovery efforts.
James Adelizzi, a local resident, recounted noticing unusual lights near the lagoon on Friday morning. "I saw headlights shining through the water. The next day, I realized the gate was off its hinges and had ended up in the canal," he told Local 10 News.
Two days later, divers from the Broward Sheriff's Office successfully recovered the truck. The body was then transported by the County Medical Examiner's Office, with authorities withholding initial details on whether it was an accident or if other factors were involved.
The tragic news has deeply affected the local sports community, especially at Level Up Boxing and Fitness, where Scibica co-owned and served as a trainer. On Sunday, friends, family, and gym members gathered in a prayer circle near the canal while the search efforts continued.
Those familiar with Scibica noted that he did not reside in the area where the vehicle was found, raising numerous questions about how he ended up there and what transpired after leaving the bar.
Authorities reiterated that the investigation remains active and urged patience as they work to uncover the truth.
Key Questions About the Discovery of Jonathan Scibica
What were the circumstances of Jonathan Scibica's disappearance?
Jonathan Scibica was last seen leaving Cheers Bar in Fort Lauderdale early Friday morning. His disappearance was reported after he failed to return home, and he was believed to be driving a gray Honda Ridgeline.
How did authorities find Scibica's vehicle?
The vehicle was discovered submerged in a canal during a search operation on Sunday near a quiet residential neighborhood. It was later retrieved by divers from the Broward Sheriff's Office.
What impact has Scibica's death had on the local community?
Scibica's death has caused a significant impact, particularly at Level Up Boxing and Fitness, where he was a co-owner and trainer. The community has come together in mourning and prayer for him.