Marion County Sheriff’s Office detectives charged Zachary Snyder, 19, with first degree premeditated murder in the death of Doris Babcock, 66, of 2180 NW 225th Ave., Dunnellon. Snyder is now in the Marion County Jail. No bond has been set. Doris’ husband, Cecil Babcock, called the Marion County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009. Cecil told deputies he speaks to his wife several times a day (via phone) while he works as a long distance truck driver. Cecil’s last conversation with Doris was the morning of Friday, Nov. 13, 2009.

Marion County deputies conducted a “well-being” check around 11 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009. Deputies did not find Doris Babcock, but did find Zachary Snyder in the Babcock’s home. Zachary told deputies, he did not know where Doris was at that time. Deputies called Cecil, who told deputies Zachary should not be in his home. Zachary was detained. Deputies asked Zachary if he had anything in his pocket, Zachary replied he did. Deputies found 6 credit/debit cards belonging to Doris Babcock. Zachary was charged with theft of the credit cards and violation of probation.

Deputies soon found Doris’ vehicle in the backyard. Deputies could see blood throughout the home and other elements of foul play. At that point, deputies made contact with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Special Investigation Bureau. Investigators learned Zachary was burning something in a pit. Zachary told investigators he was burning garbage. Detectives, looking into the pit, found human remains (of which the Medical Examiners’ Office confirmed) of Doris Babcock.

Cecil and Doris Babcock reportedly took Zachary Snyder into their home several years ago, to prevent Zachary from going into the Foster Care system. Snyder’s first appearance is planned at 9 a.m., Tuesday. Zachary denies committing any act of violence against “grandma” as he called Doris. But, investigators learned from interviewing others, Zachary was wearing bloody clothing Friday, November 13, 2009. Also, Zachary had cuts to his fingers and that he needed medical treatment. Investigators learned where to find the bloody clothing - got a warrant and found the clothing in Zachary’s mobile home. Also, investigators found a knife with a bent blade.