Body found inside stolen car in Jacksonville Beach

UPDATE: Police ID body found in car as Espling Jewelers burglary suspect

Police are investigating after a man’s body was found inside a stolen car in Jacksonville Beach.

The car was still running when officers found it parked in a lot on 14th Avenue South.

"This is what happens when you let ur girlfriend borrow ur new car! (Has backup cam)" is written on the bumper of the car.

Jacksonville Beach police said a medical examiner is working to determine the man’s cause of death.

There were no signs of foul play on his body.

Action News Jax Amber Krycka spoke to neighbors who were surprised the man was found dead in their neighborhood.

It’s an area neighbors call the quiet side of the beach.

Many people stopped to see what was going on as police investigated.

“It just kind of puzzles us for something like that to happen out here,” Gary Godreau said.

Police say the Toyota Corolla was stolen from Jacksonville.

Michael Drinkwater lives across the street and saw police approach the car.

“Six officers started to approach the car, all six of them with their guns drawn, which brought my attention to it,” Drinkwater said.

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He said the officers checked the cab and trunk of the car.

“Then the yellow tarps came out, and they started covering the car up,” he said.

Investigators said they found a man inside the car dead.

“It’s beautiful out here, we don’t have any problems,” Drinkwater said.

Cox Media Group