Man charged with murder after woman's body found in Fort Lauderdale

Altavious Powell arrested days after Daneshia Heller's body was discovered

Feb. 23, 2026 at 8:04pm

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A 34-year-old man named Altavious Powell has been charged with first-degree murder with a firearm in connection with the death of 30-year-old Daneshia Heller, whose body was found in a Fort Lauderdale neighborhood last week. Police say Powell was identified as a suspect after an anonymous caller reported he had confessed to the homicide.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of violent crime in the Fort Lauderdale area, where police have worked to address a rise in gun violence and homicides in recent years. The discovery of Heller's body and Powell's subsequent arrest have raised concerns about public safety in the community.

The details

According to police, Heller's body was found shortly before 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday in the 200 block of Northwest 15th Avenue. Detectives determined her death was suspicious and likely a homicide. Powell was initially arrested on Thursday on unrelated charges of possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, carrying a concealed firearm, resisting an officer, and providing false identification to police. He is now also facing a first-degree murder charge with a firearm.

  • Heller's body was found on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • An anonymous caller reported Powell had confessed to the homicide shortly before 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 20, 2026.
  • Powell was arrested by Fort Lauderdale police on Thursday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Altavious Powell

A 34-year-old man who has been charged with first-degree murder with a firearm in connection with the death of Daneshia Heller.

Daneshia Heller

A 30-year-old woman whose body was found in a Fort Lauderdale neighborhood, leading to the murder charge against Altavious Powell.

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What’s next

Court records pertaining to the murder charge against Altavious Powell were not available at the time of reporting, but he is currently being held in the Broward Main Jail.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the ongoing need for law enforcement and community efforts to address violent crime and improve public safety in the Fort Lauderdale area. As the investigation continues, it will be important to understand the circumstances surrounding Heller's death and Powell's alleged involvement in order to prevent similar incidents in the future.