NewsWFLA News Channel 8 (Florida)October 27, 2026Hillsborough County
Volusia County Sheriff charges Epifanio Gaminde with first-degree murder in wife's disappearance
Photo: WFLA News Channel 8 (Florida)
Epifanio Gaminde was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the disappearance of his wife, Maria Gaminde, nearly two years after she was reported missing. Investigators allege he fabricated text messages to make it appear she was living overseas and avoiding contact. He is currently held without bond under an immigration detainer from ICE.
Read the full story at WFLA News Channel 8 (Florida)Why It Matters
A two-year missing persons case in DeBary concluded with an arrest and first-degree murder charge, though authorities have not yet located the victim's body.
Key Facts
- Epifanio Gaminde was arrested on Oct. 26 and charged with first-degree murder.
- Maria Gaminde was reported missing by family members in January 2024 at age 44.
- Epifanio Gaminde initially told police his wife left their DeBary home on her own and was living overseas.
- Investigators concluded that text messages and communications supposedly from Maria Gaminde were inauthentic.
- Officials from the sheriff's office and state attorney's office traveled to the Philippines to conduct interviews and collect evidence.
- The investigation involved collaboration with Japanese authorities.
- Police have not yet found Maria Gaminde's body despite the extensive investigation.
- Epifanio Gaminde is being held with no bond and faces an immigration detainer from ICE.
Who's Mentioned
PersonMaria Gaminde“Missing woman who was 44 at the time of her disappearance”locationTampa Bay“Region mentioned in video headline context”locationDeBary“City where the couple lived”locationJapan“Country whose authorities collaborated with the investigation”OrganizationState Attorney's Office“Office that sent officials to conduct interviews overseas”locationVolusia County“County where the missing persons case originated”PersonEpifanio Gaminde“Husband of Maria Gaminde, arrested and charged with her murder”OrganizationICE“Immigration and Customs Enforcement, placed an immigration detainer on the suspe”locationPhilippines“Country where officials conducted interviews and collected evidence”OrganizationVolusia County Sheriff's Office“Law enforcement agency leading the investigation”