Big Bend, Florida

The Big Bend Cold Case Task Force has announced a significant advancement in the ongoing investigation of the 2017 homicide of Kaylyn Van De Wostine. Law enforcement officials have arrested Akbar Beale, a 46-year-old man, and charged him with second-degree murder in connection with the case.

Kaylyn Van De Wostine was discovered deceased on November 3, 2017, in the 2600 block of McArthur Street, prompting an extensive investigation. Initial findings indicated that she had died from a single gunshot wound. However, investigators faced challenges in generating leads, leading to the case going cold.

In a turn of events, advanced forensic technology has enabled detectives to revisit long-stalled cases. In June 2025, DNA evidence pertaining to the case was submitted for advanced testing, which subsequently led to the identification of Beale as a suspect. This breakthrough has brought renewed hope for justice in a case that had remained unresolved for years.

Prior to this arrest, Beale had a criminal history dating back to 1997. In 2019, during the investigation, blood associated with the case was located in Beale’s truck; however, at that time, insufficient DNA evidence complicated any potential connections. The recent technological advancements allowed law enforcement to thoroughly analyze the evidence and ultimately link Beale to the homicide.

As of October 3, Beale is currently being held at the Leon County jail without the option for bail while awaiting trial. Meanwhile, the Cold Case Task Force, which was established in 2023, is working to streamline investigations involving unresolved cases in the area. The task force comprises multiple agencies including the Tallahassee Police Department, Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the State Attorney’s Office.

To further assist in solving cold cases, the task force has launched a dedicated website at Talgov.com/ColdCaseTaskForce. This platform allows the public to submit tips and provides comprehensive information on various cold cases. The site features case summaries, photographs, and direct contact details for those wishing to share information regarding unsolved cases.

Background of the Investigation

The homicide of Kaylyn Van De Wostine marks a tragic event in the Big Bend area, with her discovery sparking a wide-ranging investigation that initially produced few leads. As time passed, many feared that the case might never see closure. However, the formation of the Cold Case Task Force has reignited efforts to solve older cases by revisiting cold leads and utilizing new technology.

The task force’s website also underscores the importance of community involvement in solving these cases. By encouraging residents to contribute information, authorities hope to break down barriers that might have previously hindered investigations.
The case of Kaylyn Van De Wostine exemplifies the ongoing struggle against unsolved homicides and points to the potential for resolution through collaboration and technology in modern forensic science.