Community Remembers Missing Teenager
The disappearance of 16-year-old Miranda Corsette has shaken the Gulfport community. After being reported missing, investigations revealed that she was allegedly murdered by a man she met online. Authorities are now searching for her remains while charges of first-degree murder have been filed against her suspected killers. The incident has raised concerns about online safety, urging communities to protect young individuals from potential dangers.
In a shocking turn of events that has left many in the community heartbroken, the case of 16-year-old Miranda Corsette has captured the attention of Gulfport residents and beyond. The teen was reported missing on February 24, 2025, by her grandmother, setting off a frantic search by local law enforcement and her loving family.
The story began a little over a week earlier when Miranda met a 35-year-old man named Steven Gress through a social media app on February 14. It’s a familiar scenario in today’s world, where technology connects us like never before. However, what started as a seemingly innocent encounter took a dark turn.
Days later, after briefly returning home, Miranda made the choice to visit Gress’s duplex at 2708 27th Ave. N. once again. She found herself staying with Gress and his partner, Michelle Brandes, 37. The situation escalated quickly when, on February 20, a dispute allegedly broke out, leading to a horrifying incident where Miranda was reportedly beaten.
According to investigators, it is believed that Miranda was killed between February 20 and February 24, just days after her initial disappearance. Evidence has led authorities to suspect that Gress transported Miranda’s body to a nearby house in Largo, where it is thought that her remains were dismembered. This particularly gruesome detail is something that has sent chills through the entire community, raising concerns about the safety of young people online.
Law enforcement faced a massive task when searching for answers. After receiving a tip concerning Miranda’s kidnapping and subsequent murder on March 7, investigators moved swiftly. Gress had already been taken into custody on unrelated drug possession charges just two days earlier, on March 5, and for allegedly brandishing a harpoon at Brandes.
In the aftermath, Gress was officially charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping concerning Miranda’s tragic case, sending waves of disbelief through the community. Not to be left out, Brandes later turned herself into police custody, and she is also facing a charge of first-degree murder. Authorities are determined to uncover every piece of this disturbing puzzle.
As detectives work diligently to piece together the timeline of events leading up to Miranda’s death, the ongoing search for her remains has become a significant priority. Investigators are actively exploring a dumpster located at 2893 14th Ave. S.E., Ruskin, where it is believed that Gress discarded the remains. This gruesome discovery is essential in bringing some semblance of closure to a family grappling with immense loss.
This incident has been labeled a “horrific crime” by police, highlighting the chilling reality of what can occur when young individuals engage with strangers online. As Gulfport residents process the unthinkable events that have taken place, many are expressing their condolences and support for Miranda’s family. Local groups are rallying to remind everyone of the critical importance of online safety, particularly for the youth who are often unaware of the possible dangers.
The dedication of law enforcement to bring justice for Miranda Corsette is unwavering, and hopefully, in time, the truth will come to light. In the meantime, the community will continue to mourn the loss of a promising young life cut tragically short.
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