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Port Charlotte Today
By the People, for the People
Florida Man Charged with Murdering Boss, Attempting to Flee with Body
Richard Dustin Barker allegedly strangled his employer, Jeffrey Hubbard, with a tank top before trying to transport the body away.
Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:53am
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A chilling piece of physical evidence from a shocking case of workplace violence in Florida.Port Charlotte TodayA 42-year-old Florida man named Richard Dustin Barker has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder and tampering with evidence after allegedly strangling his 56-year-old boss, Jeffrey Hubbard, with a tank top and attempting to flee the scene with Hubbard's body. Barker reportedly confessed to the crime, telling police 'I killed the motherf---er,' and later posed for a chilling mugshot photo.
Why it matters
This case highlights the dangers of workplace violence and the need for better mental health resources and conflict resolution training for employees. It also raises questions about the security measures in place at small businesses to protect owners and staff.
The details
According to the police affidavit, Barker waited for Hubbard to leave their workplace, RPM Mower Repair, early in the morning to get coffee. Barker then confronted Hubbard, strangling him with a white tank top he had wrapped around his wrist. After a struggle, Barker said he continued strangling Hubbard until he died. Barker then tried to conceal evidence by placing the tank top around Hubbard's neck and using a hose to wash blood from the sidewalk. When Barker couldn't lift Hubbard's body into his truck, he retrieved a trailer to transport it.
- Around 6 a.m. on April 10, 2026, police responded to a report of a fight between two men outside a home on the 200 block of Grove Street South.
- Barker allegedly killed Hubbard early that morning before the victim left to get coffee.
The players
Richard Dustin Barker
A 42-year-old Florida man who was employed by the victim, Jeffrey Hubbard, at RPM Mower Repair.
Jeffrey Hubbard
A 56-year-old man who owned RPM Mower Repair and was allegedly murdered by his employee, Richard Dustin Barker.
What they’re saying
“I killed the motherf---er”
— Richard Dustin Barker
What’s next
Barker is currently being held in the Sarasota County Jail without bond and is due to appear in court on Friday.
The takeaway
This tragic incident underscores the need for improved workplace safety protocols, mental health resources for employees, and better conflict resolution training to prevent future acts of workplace violence.
