Melbourne Man Arrested for First-Degree Murder, Arson
By Space Coast Daily // April 30, 2024
Noe will be extradited back to Brevard County after being arrested in Volusia County
BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – Melbourne Police say they have arrested a suspect for First Degree Murder and Arson of a Dwelling.
According to the investigation, the Melbourne Police and Fire Departments responded to 1827 Guava Ave for a structure fire on November 15, 2023, at 9:53 a.m.
When they arrived, they discovered the back porch on fire and located a victim David Herles with significant burns to his body.
The fire department extinguished the fire, and the victim was transported to Holmes Regional. Herles was later transported by helicopter to the burn center at the Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), according to Melbourne Police.
Melbourne Police Detectives, Crime Scene Investigators, and a state arson investigator responded to the investigation.
On November 15, 2023, at 11:26 pm, the victim succumbed to his injuries while at the ORMC.
The back porch of 1827 Guava Ave was the temporary shelter for Theodore Thomas Noe. In addition, Herles had been recently granted permission to also use the porch as a temporary shelter as both Noe and Herles were unhoused.
Police say a lengthy investigation was conducted by detectives who conducted several interviews and collected numerous evidentiary items.
On April 26, 2024, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Theodore Noe for the following charges:
1. First Degree Felony Murder, Fla. Stat. §782.04(1)(a)2.b.
2. Arson of Dwelling, Fla. Stat. §806.01(1)(a)
On April 29, 2024, officers with the Port Orange Police Department received information that Noe was working and temporarily residing in their city. Police contacted Noe and he was arrested without incident.
Noe is currently being held on a no bond status in the Volusia County Correctional Facility, pending extradition back to Brevard County.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Melbourne Police Department 321-608-6731, Detective Hazelett 321-608-6462, or the Central Florida Crimeline (800-423-TIPS).
