Myakka City Man Charged with Murder in Father's Death

A Myakka City man faces a second-degree murder charge following the death of his father, Richard Cantwell, 85. Kieran Cantwell, 51, was arrested Aug. 20, 2026, after an altercation at their shared home on Magellan Drive in south Manatee County.

Manatee County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the residence around 10 p.m. Aug. 20 after a report of a fight. Investigators allege Kieran Cantwell punched his father once in the face during the dispute. Richard Cantwell fell backward, striking his head on the tile floor.

Richard Cantwell was transported to a local hospital. Kieran Cantwell, initially charged with felony battery, remained in the Manatee County Jail on a $75,000 bond.

Richard Cantwell died Aug. 24 from his injuries. Following an investigation and consultation with the State Attorney's Office, Kieran Cantwell was formally charged with second-degree murder on Aug. 28. He remains in jail.

The case number is 2026-017680.