Haitian National Charged in Brutal Hammer Attack on Florida Store Clerk

Authorities say the suspect faces homicide charges and will be deported after serving any sentence.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:36pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car windshield reflecting the harsh light of a camera flash, conceptually representing the violence of this tragic crime.A brutal attack on a local store clerk has sparked outrage and renewed calls for tougher immigration enforcement.Fort Myers Today

A 40-year-old Haitian national named Rolbert Joachin has been arrested and charged with homicide in connection with the brutal beating death of a female store clerk at a gas station in Fort Myers, Florida. Authorities say Joachin first attacked the victim by smashing her car windshield before later returning to the gas station and striking her in the head multiple times with a hammer, killing her.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has sparked outrage in the local community and raised concerns about public safety, the immigration status of the suspect, and the potential role of mental health or other factors that may have contributed to the violent attack.

The details

According to police, Joachin first approached the victim, who was a mother, at the gas station on April 3 and allegedly smashed her car windshield. He then returned to the same location sometime later and brutally attacked the clerk, striking her in the head several times with a hammer. Fort Myers police and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents later located and arrested Joachin on Mango Street.

  • The initial incident occurred on April 3.
  • Joachin was arrested by police and ICE agents on Tuesday.

The players

Rolbert Joachin

A 40-year-old Haitian national who has been charged with homicide and criminal mischief in connection with the attack.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency that has issued a detainer against Joachin, indicating he will be deported after serving any sentence.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The video of her brutal slaying is one of the most vicious things you will ever see. ... Please say a prayer for this innocent woman's family. We will ensure quick and severe JUSTICE is served in this case!”

— President Donald Trump

What’s next

Joachin is being held in the Lee County Jail, and a bond has not yet been set. Authorities have indicated he will face deportation proceedings after any criminal sentence he may receive.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has renewed concerns about public safety, the role of immigration status in violent crimes, and the need for comprehensive solutions to address mental health issues and prevent such senseless acts of violence in the future.