State to Seek Death Penalty in 2023 Lehigh Acres Double Murder

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State prosecutors have filed their intent to seek the death penalty against Yohani Gonzalez de Lazaro, 47, who is accused of killing two people during a home invasion in Lehigh Acres, Florida in June 2023, just hours before a scheduled court hearing on a civil dispute between Gonzalez de Lazaro and one of the victims.

Why it matters

This case highlights the use of the death penalty in Florida, which has one of the highest execution rates in the country. It also raises questions about the potential connections between civil disputes and violent crimes, as well as the role of mental health and domestic issues in such incidents.

The details

Authorities say Gonzalez de Lazaro arrived at the home on June 14, 2023, wearing a ski mask and started an altercation with a woman before opening fire. A man in the home then contained Gonzalez de Lazaro while another woman called the police. The victims were identified as mother Eugenia Veronica Alvarez and son Josue Vega Alvarez. Prosecutors believe the shooting may have been prompted by a civil case between Gonzalez de Lazaro and victim Danae Velazquez Alvarez.

• On June 14, 2023, the shooting occurred just before 7 a.m.
• On Dec. 9, 2023, a Lee County grand jury indicted Gonzalez de Lazaro.
• On Jan. 9, 2024, prosecutors filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty.
• On Nov. 27, 2023, a Lee County judge ruled that Velazquez Alvarez is the rightful owner of the disputed property, rejecting Gonzalez de Lazaro's claim.
• On Feb. 25, 2024, Gonzalez de Lazaro appealed the ruling to the Florida District Court of Appeal.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Gonzalez de Lazaro is next due in court on March 17 for a pretrial conference, where the judge will determine if the death penalty will be pursued in this case.