Cutler Bay, Florida – A man has been charged with murder after authorities discovered the body of 39-year-old Igor Ernesto Ortiz inside a burning pickup truck in Cutler Bay on Thursday. The incident occurred near Old Cutler Road and Southwest 92nd Avenue in the afternoon, prompting the arrival of first responders at around 1:45 p.m.
Law enforcement officials identified the suspect as 35-year-old Randall Lautzenheiser, who was apprehended shortly after the fire was extinguished. A witness, who requested anonymity, said they saw the entire altercation. According to the witness, the two men were engaged in an argument which escalated into a physical fight, which ultimately led to the truck catching fire. “They were arguing, fighting..and then fire,” according to the witness.
Upon the arrival of the police, Lautzenheiser was found in the parking lot with burn marks on his forearms and without a shirt. He was immediately taken into custody based on his arrest report. Prior to the incident, Lautzenheiser had been seen sitting inside the truck with the victim, and their verbal altercation was witnessed by others. Additionally, Lautzenheiser was also observed purchasing a small can of fuel at a Chevron gas station and returning it to the victim’s truck.
Moments later, another argument was heard, followed by the truck becoming engulfed in flames. According to the authorities, the suspect was then seen fleeing from the scene. During questioning, Lautzenheiser explained that he had gone to the gas station, placed $5 on the counter, and bought a can of beer and gas. He claimed that Ortiz was inside the truck smoking a cigarette when the gas can ignited.
Lautzenheiser was arrested on Friday and is currently being held without bond at TGK. He has been charged with first-degree murder and first-degree arson.
This tragic incident in Cutler Bay resulted in the death of Igor Ernesto Ortiz and the arrest of Randall Lautzenheiser. There is an ongoing investigation by the police into the circumstances surrounding the altercation and fire. The authorities are treating this case as a homicide and arson, determined to uncover the truth and bring justice to the victim’s family.