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Man charged in death of grandmother and great-grandmother

A 22-year-old man recently released from prison is now back behind bars, according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office.

Officials said Azael Stevens is charged with the shooting deaths of his grandmother, Yolanda E. Fruto, 70, and great-grandmother, Faustina M. Bontteg, 93, and one count of attempted murder.

Sheriff's Office spokesman Judge Cochran said Stevens allegedly shot a third woman in the face and stole her car.

The woman had been staying at the family home in southwest Ocala where Stevens killed his grandmother and great-grandmother. Stevens was staying at the home after his recent prison release.

The third victim "did give us a good description of the suspect," Cochran said. "She also let us know what car the suspect was driving, so within 20 minutes our deputies were able to find that car here in Marion County, pull the suspect over to the side and arrest him."

Deputies arrested Stevens without resistance on State Road 200 in Ocala. Cochran said Stevens is the sole suspect at this time.

The names of the two dead women and the third wounded woman haven't been released by the Sheriff's Office.

Right now, there is no explanation for the shootings. Stevens, currently in Marion County jail, is not talking to investigators.

Kelly Price edited this story online.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story had an incorrect last name for Ms. Bontteg. The Marion County Sheriff's office sent an update at 4:19 p.m.

Forrest is a radio news manager for WUFT News. Reach him by emailing news@wuft.org or calling 352-392-6397.