Edward Stephen Koza, 67, Found Murdered and Burned Inside His Vehicle at Tropic Bay Water Gardens — Jonah Michael Poole and Kylee Alyssa Dakes, Both 18, Arrested and Charged with First-Degree Murder and Arson in Davidsonville, Maryland
The peaceful town of Davidsonville, Maryland, was rocked by a gruesome crime that unfolded on May 24, 2025. Edward Stephen Koza, a 67-year-old respected business owner from Annapolis, was found burned beyond recognition inside his own vehicle, which had been deliberately set ablaze in the parking lot of his longtime business, Tropic Bay Water Gardens.
What initially appeared to be a horrific car fire quickly evolved into a homicide investigation after firefighters extinguishing the flames made a chilling discovery: a body, later confirmed to be Koza’s, inside the charred remains of the vehicle. The circumstances surrounding the fire quickly raised red flags, prompting a full-scale investigation by the Anne Arundel County Police Department.
Just days after the incident, two teenagers — Jonah Michael Poole of Davidsonville and Kylee Alyssa Dakes of Harwood, both 18 years old — were arrested and charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, first-degree arson, second-degree arson, and conspiracy to commit murder and arson. The arrests came as a result of rapid, intensive detective work, including forensic analysis, surveillance footage, and witness interviews.
The Victim: Edward Koza
Edward Koza was not just a businessman — he was a fixture in the Annapolis and Davidsonville communities. A passionate entrepreneur, Koza had owned and operated Tropic Bay Water Gardens for years. His business specialized in aquatic landscaping, fish ponds, and decorative water features, drawing loyal customers from across the region.
Friends and patrons of Koza described him as kind, helpful, and deeply knowledgeable in his craft. Customers trusted his advice and often left his shop feeling not only satisfied with a purchase but with a genuine connection. “He was a good man — always willing to help. I can’t believe he’s gone,” said one longtime customer through tears.
His shocking death — and the horrifying manner in which it occurred — has sent waves of disbelief and sorrow through those who knew him. Friends and neighbors gathered outside his business in the days that followed, placing flowers and handwritten notes of condolence near the charred remains of the crime scene.
The Crime Scene and Discovery
At approximately 7:30 a.m. on May 24, emergency responders were dispatched to Tropic Bay Water Gardens on West Central Avenue after receiving reports of a car engulfed in flames. Firefighters arrived on the scene to find the vehicle — later identified as belonging to Koza — fully involved. After managing to douse the fire, investigators found the body inside.
Due to the extensive burns, immediate identification was not possible. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore later confirmed the victim’s identity through forensic analysis.
Koza’s death was ruled a homicide.
Arrests and Charges
Just three days later, on May 27, Anne Arundel County Police announced that two suspects had been arrested in connection with the murder. Jonah Michael Poole and Kylee Alyssa Dakes, both from Anne Arundel County and recently turned 18, were charged with:
- First-degree murder
- Second-degree murder
- First-degree assault
- Conspiracy to commit first- and second-degree murder
- First-degree and second-degree arson
- Conspiracy to commit arson
According to authorities, the suspects had planned and executed the murder together. Though a clear motive has not yet been publicly disclosed, sources close to the investigation suggest that there may have been a personal dispute or prior connection between at least one of the suspects and Koza. Prosecutors have remained tight-lipped as they work to secure a strong case.
Court documents reveal that the suspects not only set the car on fire with Koza inside but had conspired beforehand to do so, indicating the crime was premeditated. Police have also stated that they believe Koza was already dead or incapacitated before the fire was started.
Both suspects are being held without bond.
Community Reaction
The response from the Davidsonville and Annapolis communities has been one of profound sadness and outrage. A man known for his kindness and dedication to his work was killed in a way so brutal it has left people stunned.
Residents have organized vigils and memorials to honor Koza’s life and legacy. Candles, flowers, and written tributes line the front of Tropic Bay Water Gardens, where the smell of smoke has only just begun to fade. One note reads, “Thank you for your wisdom and your friendship, Ed. We miss you terribly.”
Many community members expressed shock that teenagers — just out of high school — could be responsible for such a horrific crime. “It’s hard to understand,” said one Davidsonville resident. “What would possess two young people to do something so monstrous to a man like Ed?”
Legal Proceedings and the Path Ahead
Both Jonah Poole and Kylee Dakes have had preliminary hearings and remain in custody as the case proceeds. The State’s Attorney’s Office for Anne Arundel County is expected to pursue the highest possible penalties for both defendants.
If convicted of first-degree murder, both suspects could face life in prison. Given the nature of the crime — premeditated, violent, and involving arson — prosecutors may consider seeking life without the possibility of parole.
Defense attorneys have not yet commented publicly on the charges or the strategy they plan to pursue. A trial is likely to begin in late 2025 or early 2026, depending on pre-trial motions and the speed of discovery.
Edward Koza’s Legacy
In the midst of tragedy, Koza’s friends and family are working to ensure that his legacy is preserved. Plans are underway to establish a memorial fund in his name, dedicated to supporting youth education in horticulture and water gardening — areas Koza passionately promoted through his business.
“He loved teaching others about what he did,” said one former employee. “He wasn’t just a businessman — he was a mentor. He wanted people to learn, to grow, and to take pride in their work.”
The family has asked for privacy as they process this devastating loss and prepare for funeral services. A public memorial is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Final Thoughts
The murder of Edward Stephen Koza is a reminder of how sudden and senseless violence can upend the lives of so many. A man dedicated to his craft and community was taken in an act that was not only cruel but deliberately planned. The arrests of Jonah Poole and Kylee Dakes may bring some measure of justice, but they cannot undo the loss felt by everyone who knew Koza.
His memory now lives on in the hearts of those he touched, the business he built, and the community that mourns him. The justice system must now do its part to hold the perpetrators accountable and honor the life of a man who deserved so much better.
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