A Florida man killed a family of four and burned the bodies in a backyard fire [VIDEO]

A Florida homeowner has been arrested after allegedly killing a family of four, including two young children, and burning their remains in a pit, authorities said. The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Rory Atwood, admitted to the crime after getting into a dispute with the victims, who he had been friends with since high school.

The incident began when the family, described as “transient”, was reported missing by Rain Mancini's mother, 26, who did not maintain regular contact with her. Police initially questioned Atwood, who denied knowing the family's whereabouts.

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“If there was no evil in this world, we wouldn't have to pray so much. And when I tell that story today, you're going to hear about evil.” Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco

However, investigators observed an active pit emitting smoke in Atwood's backyard during a search of the property. The owner allowed cadaver dogs to search the area, and they discovered skeletal remains, soft tissue and vertebrae in the pit. Also, a strong odor of chlorine was detected in the back yard.

Under further questioning, Atwood's story began to unravel. He finally confessed to killing the family, claiming self-defense. According to her account, the parents arrived at her home armed with knives, which led to a physical altercation. Atwood alleges she saw Mancini “chop” her 4-year-old daughter's throat with a knife, prompting him to use a firearm in self-defense, ultimately killing them both parents

Although Atwood did not initially reveal the location of the children during the fight, she later hinted that their bodies were also in the pit. However, he did not admit to killing them himself. Authorities are currently working to make a definitive connection between the family and the remains recovered from the scene.

Atwood was charged with the deaths of the family members based on his confession, although he pleaded not guilty during his court appearance. He is currently being held without bail.

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