VERO BEACH, FL – Authorities are investigating the grim death of a 76-year-old woman discovered in her Vero Beach home after her grandson allegedly confessed to killing her and using her possessions to buy cigarettes and beer.

Patricia Dibella was found dead in her residence on Fairways Circle after deputies with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office conducted a welfare check on the night of Feb. 2. Family members had grown concerned after they were unable to reach her and contacted law enforcement for assistance, according to investigators.

When deputies arrived at the scene, they encountered Dibella’s grandson, Nicholas Ivey, 29, standing outside the residence. Ivey informed officials that his grandmother was dead inside. Law enforcement entered the home and located Dibella’s body in the master bedroom.

According to statements provided to investigators, Ivey claimed he killed his grandmother by snapping her neck, beating her, and stomping on her while she was on the ground. He reportedly detailed the events leading up to her death, telling authorities that Dibella had confronted him with a steak knife and poked him in the back, prompting his violent outburst.

Investigators say Ivey admitted to moving Dibella’s body from the kitchen to the bedroom following her death. He also confessed to cleaning up blood from the kitchen floor and laundering his clothing before authorities arrived.

The timeline given by Ivey places Dibella’s death at approximately 9 p.m. on Feb. 1. The following day, Ivey stated he took his grandmother’s wallet and keys, drove her vehicle to a nearby store, and used her credit cards to purchase cigarettes and beer.

Deputies arrested Ivey early on Feb. 3, booking him on charges that include grand theft auto, fraudulent use of a credit card, unlawful possession of stolen credit cards, and criminal use of personal identification. Despite his confession, Ivey has not yet been charged in connection with Dibella’s death as of Monday morning, according to officials familiar with the investigation.

Authorities have yet to announce an official cause of death pending the outcome of an autopsy. The Indian River sheriff’s office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Dibella’s killing, reviewing forensic evidence and collecting witness statements.

Neighbors in the Fairways Circle community expressed shock at the news, recalling Dibella as a quiet, longstanding resident. Many indicated they had noticed increased activity near her home in recent days but were unaware of the unfolding tragedy.

Family members have declined comment while the case remains open. The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with relevant information to contact investigators as they seek to clarify the events leading to Dibella’s death.