Father Arrested for Allegedly Killing 16-Year-Old Son with Angle Grinder in Lake Wales, FL

LAKE WALES, FL, September 5, 2023 – Stephen Thomas Rodda, 37, has been taken into custody for allegedly killing his 16-year-old son, Stephen Lee Rodda. The incident occurred in a residence where the 16-year-old had been living with his grandfather, Thomas Rodda, to assist him while his grandmother was in rehabilitation.

Thomas Rodda, who had spent several hours visiting his wife yesterday, returned home to find the suspect waiting for him. Stephen Thomas Rodda allegedly warned his father, saying, “I wouldn’t go in there if I was you. I killed someone. You may need to call the police.” Upon entering the home, the grandfather discovered his grandson deceased. The sheriff has stated that it appears an angle grinder, described as “a heavy-duty saw,” was used in the act.

The victim was a junior at Frostproof High School and was studying to become an electrician. He was due to start work at a local Burger King next week to earn money for a car, according to family members.