Police Arrest Suspect in Woman's Death, Dispel Serial Killer Rumors

Authorities say 34-year-old Altavious Powell is in custody for the killing of Daneshia Heller, a 30-year-old mother of three.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Fort Lauderdale police have arrested a 34-year-old man, Altavious Powell, in connection with the death of Daneshia Heller, a 30-year-old mother of three whose body was found near a dumpster last week. Authorities have dispelled rumors of a serial killer in the area, stating that Powell is not linked to any other murders.

Why it matters

The discovery of Heller's body sparked widespread concern and speculation on social media about a potential serial killer operating in the Fort Lauderdale area. Police have moved quickly to address these rumors and assure the public that there is no ongoing threat.

The details

According to court documents, an anonymous tipster told detectives that Powell confessed to killing Heller. Her body was found naked and covered in cardboard near a dumpster. Heller's family has expressed grief and outrage over the condition in which her body was discovered.

  • Daneshia Heller's body was discovered on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • Police arrested Altavious Powell in connection with the killing.
  • On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, police held a press conference to address the rumors of a serial killer.

The players

Altavious Powell

A 34-year-old man arrested by Fort Lauderdale police in connection with the death of Daneshia Heller.

Daneshia Heller

A 30-year-old mother of three whose body was found near a dumpster in Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Powell and addressed the rumors of a serial killer in the area.

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What they’re saying

“She was a human, and she was treated like an animal. And I couldn't be there to help her, and I would give my life for my kids.”

— David Heller, Daneshia Heller's father (cbsnews.com)

“We are here to dispel any rumors or concerns. We do not have a serial killer that we are looking at in the city of Ft Lauderdale.”

— Sgt. Don Geiger, Fort Lauderdale Police Department (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

A hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, 2026, to address a motion filed by the public defender assigned to Altavious Powell to withdraw from the case due to previous representation of Daneshia Heller.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of law enforcement quickly addressing and dispelling rumors and misinformation that can spread rapidly on social media, especially in the aftermath of a tragic event. The Fort Lauderdale Police Department's swift action to clarify that there is no serial killer threat has helped to reassure the community.