Kissimmee police detectives have secured a formal arrest warrant for a man already sitting behind bars, officially tying him to a fatal backyard attack that occurred last month.
Nicolas Alexander Lopez, 32, now faces charges of second-degree murder and grand theft auto in connection with the death of 71-year-old Charles Harper. Lopez has been held at the Seminole County Jail on unrelated charges since June 25, 2026—the exact same day authorities first discovered Harper’s body.
The investigation began on the morning of June 25, when police communications received a 911 call at around 10:15 a.m. regarding an injured individual in the 1500 block of Heather Way. Responding officers searched the property and located Harper outside in the backyard. According to police reports, Harper had suffered severe trauma to his face and was pronounced dead right there at the scene.
Investigators initially labeled Lopez as a person of interest in the case. As detectives tracked physical evidence and interviewed sources over the following weeks, they built enough probable cause to link Lopez directly to the homicide, as well as the theft of Harper’s personal vehicle.
The legal breakthrough came on July 14, 2026, when detectives officially obtained the warrant.
Kissimmee Police Chief Charles Broadway credited the breakthrough to the detailed, step-by-step assembly of the case by his department’s frontline staff.
“Our officers and detectives remained committed to following the evidence wherever it led,” Chief Broadway said in a statement. “This arrest warrant reflects the dedication, professionalism, and teamwork of everyone involved in this investigation. While today’s arrest warrant marks an important milestone, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Mr. Harper’s family as they navigate this difficult time. I am proud of the professionalism, unwavering commitment, and integrity our officers and detectives demonstrate each and every day as they serve our community.”
With the warrant now active, Lopez remains in custody in Seminole County pending formal transfer and processing for the murder and grand theft charges.
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