A Maryland teenager has received a life sentence for the brutal murder of his former employer, whose life was taken in a shocking act of violence in 2025. Edward Stephen Koza, aged 67, was discovered deceased inside his vehicle, which had been set ablaze, in the parking lot of his business in Davidsonville.
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The horrific incident occurred on May 24, 2025, when fire crews responded to reports of a burning truck at Tropic Bay Water Gardens, an aquatic garden centre renowned for its expertise in ponds and water features. Law enforcement officials quickly established that the fire was not accidental and began an immediate investigation.
Jonah Michael Poole, 18 at the time of the attack, and his then-girlfriend Kylee Alyssa Dakes, were arrested shortly after the incident. Prosecutors have stated that Poole, with Dakes’ alleged assistance, violently assaulted Koza at his business. Witnesses and forensic evidence suggest Koza was bound and gagged before being transported in his own red pickup truck. The couple reportedly poured gasoline over the vehicle before igniting it with Koza still inside.
Within the storefront, investigators uncovered evidence of a struggle, including bloodstains and a pair of shoes belonging to the victim. Community members knew Koza as a kind and compassionate individual, highlighting his positive impact in the area through comments on social media in the days following his death. Customers described him as a source of happiness and knowledge, often aiding them in caring for their aquatic gardens.
The young couple faced an array of charges, including first-degree murder, arson, and conspiracy to commit murder. However, it was Poole who took a plea deal, admitting guilt to first-degree murder on March 18. As a result of his plea, he was sentenced to life imprisonment on June 26.
In addition to the prison sentence, Poole has been ordered to return approximately $215,000 that he stole from Koza, along with a $15,000 truck bought using the stolen funds. The landscape of charges against him and Dakes altered with the plea deal, and it remains unclear if any further charges have been dismissed or altered in the wake of Poole’s conviction.
Kylee Alyssa Dakes is set to stand trial for her alleged involvement in the crime in December. The relationship between the couple, along with the motives behind their actions, is still under scrutiny as details continue to unfold in the lead-up to her trial.
Edward Koza’s tragic death has left a profound impact on the Davidsonville community. A memorial of sorts has emerged on social media, where clients and patrons have shared their memories and condolences, reflecting on the kindness he showed to all who crossed his path.
As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on the chilling circumstances that surrounded Koza’s murder and the ongoing pursuit of justice. The case serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly life can turn tragic and the imperative to protect our local communities from such acts of violence.