Brutal Fort Myers Bludgeoning Victim Was a Mother of Two

The woman killed outside a convenience store leaves behind two daughters.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:53pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 51-year-old woman who worked as a clerk at a Fort Myers convenience store was brutally bludgeoned to death outside the store. The suspected killer, Rolbert Joachin, 40, was arrested after being on the run for several hours. The store owner revealed the victim was a mother with two daughters, one a university student and the other working at a different gas station in Fort Myers.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers that retail and service workers can face, especially those working alone or in high-crime areas. It also raises questions about safety measures and security protocols for small businesses in the community.

The details

According to the store owner, the day before the bludgeoning, the suspect had attempted to withdraw cash from the store's ATM and when he was unable to, he demanded the clerk give him cash. The next morning, the clerk was inside the store praying when she heard the suspect damaging her car, prompting her to confront him. The suspect then allegedly began bludgeoning the clerk, who was killed. Two nearby people called 911 to report the attack.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
  • Rolbert Joachin was arrested and remained in custody at the Lee County Jail on Saturday, March 4, 2026.
  • Joachin is scheduled to appear in court on May 4, 2026.

The players

Rolbert Joachin

A 40-year-old transient who was arrested and charged with the murder of the convenience store clerk.

The Victim

A 51-year-old woman who worked as a clerk at the D & D convenience store in Fort Myers and was the mother of two daughters.

D & D Convenience Store Owner

The owner of the D & D convenience store where the bludgeoning occurred, who was interviewed by a Bangladeshi news outlet.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The day before the bludgeoning, the suspect had attempted to withdraw cash from the ATM and after being unable to do so, demanded that the clerk give him cash.”

— D & D Convenience Store Owner

“The clerk is a mother who has two daughters, one who is a student at a university in Tallahassee and one who works at a different gas station in Fort Myers.”

— D & D Convenience Store Owner

What’s next

Rolbert Joachin is scheduled to appear in court on May 4, 2026, where a judge will determine if he will be granted bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for improved safety measures and security protocols for retail and service workers, especially in high-crime areas. It also highlights the devastating impact of violent crime on families and communities.