Daneshia Heller: Mother of 3 Killed in Fort Lauderdale
Daneshia Heller of Fort Lauderdale was a devoted mother of three whose life was taken far too soon. Her death — and the manner in which she was killed — has left her family shattered and searching for answers.
On February 18, 2026, Daneshia's naked body was discovered near a dumpster outside an apartment complex in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She had been shot in the head in what authorities described as an execution-style killing.
“It’s devastating… (To) shoot her in the head, like, what could she have done or said to you that you think that you want to kill and shoot my baby, execution style, like that?” her mother, Temekia Connor, told local media.
Her aunt, Latoya Snell, echoed the family's heartbreak and disbelief: “She didn’t deserve that.” Through tears, she spoke directly to Daneshia: “Baby, we love you, and even though you’re not here with us in body, you are always going to be with us in spirit.”
Police have announced the arrest of 34-year-old Altavious Powell of Miami Gardens. Powell was charged with first-degree murder in Daneshia's death after investigators linked him to the crime scene through evidence, including DNA, and received information that he had confessed to killing her.
Police have emphasized that Powell is connected only to this homicide and dispelled rampant social media rumors suggesting he was a serial killer, with Fort Lauderdale Police Sgt. Don Geiger stating clearly: “We do not have a serial killer that we’re looking at in the city of Fort Lauderdale.”
Despite the suspect being in custody, the family continues to grapple with misinformation online that has caused additional distress. They are now focused on honoring Daneshia's memory, supporting her three daughters, and seeking full justice.
A GoFundMe has been established to help cover expenses for the family during this unimaginable time.
Daneshia Heller's life mattered. She was a mother, a daughter, and a loved one whose absence leaves an irreplaceable void. Her family holds onto the love they shared and vows to keep her spirit alive.
More Resources:
