Marion County Sheriff's Office seeks public's help in solving 2014 murder case

MARION COUNTY, Florida — Authorities are asking for the public's assistance in solving the 2014 murder of Vitaliy Olenchuk, whose remains were discovered by a utility worker.On August 18, 2014, a utility worker found human remains near the 19000 block of Northeast Highway 315. Detectives identified the victim as Vitaliy Olenchuk, born December 9, 1972, and determined he had been murdered by blunt-force trauma, according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office.Olenchuk's journey was marked by hope and heartbreak. Born in Ukraine, he moved to the United States seeking a new life and had connections to Eastern European communities in Jacksonville and St. Augustine. He worked in construction and was last confirmed alive on March 16, 2012. However, evidence suggests he may have been seen in Marion County around July 2013.As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. "His family deserves closure, and we are determined to bring the person responsible for his death to justice," stated the Marion County Sheriff's Office.Anyone with information, no matter how small, is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers of Marion County at (352) 368-STOP (7867) or submit tips at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com .