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2 Arrested In Beating Death Of Sarasota High Student

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TBO.com

Published: August 1, 2008

Updated: 08/01/2008 05:55 pm

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Kennedy

Mendola

Mihailovic

SARASOTA - Detectives arrested two Riverview High School students this afternoon and charged them with the beating death of Sarasota High senior Gregory Kennedy.

The Sarasota sheriff's office charged Simon Mihailovic and Michael Mendola, both 17, with second-degree murder.

Detectives say the boys were at a birthday party at a home on Lalani Boulevard in Sarasota on Monday, when a fight broke out. The sheriff's office says there were signs of alcohol at the party.

Kennedy fell to the ground during the melee and "looked like he was dead" as two 17-year-old continued to pummel him, according to newly released arrest documents.

Deputies say Mendola knocked Kennedy to the ground. When Kennedy tried to get up, Mihailovic kicked him in the head, the reports show.

Both Mendola and Mihailovic continued to attack the Sarasota High School student on the ground, according to authorities.

An autopsy revealed that Kennedy, 18, died when an artery in his neck ruptured. The autopsy also showed the Kennedy had been struck at least seven times in the head and face.

Mendola and Mihailovic will be held overnight in jail and are expected to appear before a judge in the morning.

An investigation is continuing into whether homeowner and parent Max Herrera provided alcohol to teens attending the party.

A candelight vigil in honor of Kennedy, 18, is scheduled for 8 tonight at Phillippi Shores Elementary School on Proctor Road.

Information from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune was used in this report.

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