OCALA, FL (352today.com) – On December 28, 2025, at 6:56 a.m., Ocala Police officers responded to a 911 call about an unresponsive woman in a swimming pool at 4549 NE 6th Street. Officers arrived and found 72‑year‑old Diane German deceased.
 
The caller, German’s boyfriend, Michael Rowland, 50, reported finding her in the pool that morning. During the investigation, detectives identified inconsistencies in his statements. Surveillance footage, phone records, and other evidence showed Rowland was at German’s home the night before her death. Investigators also found that Rowland had concealed evidence inside his vehicle.
 
A medical examiner ruled the death a homicide, noting evidence of strangulation. No other individuals were identified at the residence during the critical timeframe, and no additional suspects have been named.
 
Rowland was arrested in Jacksonville, charged with second-degree murder and tampering with evidence, and will be returned to Marion County as the prosecution develops.
 
The Ocala Police Department continues to investigate thoroughly and will share updates as new information emerges.
 
We extend our deepest condolences to Diane German’s family, and we thank Detective Grosso and the staff involved for their dedicated, thorough work on this investigation.