MIDDLEBURG – A 38-year-old man from Orange Park was arrested Thursday, April 30, in connection to a homicide related to a burned-out car found on County Road 218 near North Mimosa Avenue.

Kareem Robinson Johnson was charged with second-degree murder, arson and tampering with evidence after deputies and first responders from Clay County Fire Rescue and the Sheriff’s Office were called on April 6 about a burning car.

After the fire was extinguished, CCSO and CCFR found Reginald Eldridge Gantt of Jacksonville inside the car. According to an early investigation, the car was parked at the location of the fire at least a day before it caught fire.

The Fourth District Medical Examiner’s Office determined 16 days later Gantt’s death was a homicide.

The investigation led detectives to Johnson, who was taken into custody, interviewed and arrested. He is being held at the Clay County Jail without bond.

The sheriff’s office reported the investigation remains ongoing, and it would thank the community for its continued assistance and support.

If you have any information related to this case, they are encouraged to contact Detective Mosley at (904)264-6512 or nmosley@claysheriff.com. You can also submit an anonymous tip via the SaferWatch app or First Coast Crimestoppers at 888-845-TIPS (8477).