Palm Beach Boulevard Shooting: Victim Alex Johnson, 25, Officially Identified — Suspect Yanko Romero Charged with Murder

FORT MYERS, FL — The community is reeling after the heartbreaking loss of 25-year-old Alex Johnson, who was fatally shot Sunday morning near Palm Beach Boulevard. During the initial court hearing for the suspect, 41-year-old Yanko Romero, authorities formally identified Johnson as the victim in this tragic case that has shaken Fort Myers and left a grieving family and workplace mourning.

Johnson was shot while spending a peaceful morning with his family at the Oasis boat ramp, a time meant for relaxation and bonding. His sister tearfully recalled how Alex was simply enjoying fishing with loved ones when the unthinkable happened — he was killed in front of them. Now, his family is left devastated, searching for justice amid the pain of their loss.

A Beloved Man Remembered by Family and Friends

Johnson’s employer, Advanced Landscaping Solutions, shared a heartfelt message on Facebook Monday morning that reflected the deep grief his colleagues are feeling. The post read, “Alex Johnson wasn’t just our most dedicated crew member—he was the glue that held our team together. He was my brother-in-law, my best friend, and for the past 14 years, a constant in my life who made every day better.”

The brother-in-law who penned the tribute spoke highly of Johnson’s character and spirit, saying, “He taught me more than I could have ever taught him. He showed up every day with strength, drive, and a deep love for his work, his family, and his fiancé Mallory. He had big dreams and was well on his way to making them real.” Johnson was described by those who knew him as someone who “lived with more heart and purpose than most do in a lifetime.”

Suspect Yanko Romero Faces Multiple Charges

Yanko Romero, the suspect in the shooting, was arrested Sunday afternoon near the Fort Myers Broadcasting Center on Palm Beach Boulevard, close to the scene of the crime. Romero now faces multiple charges, including murder, aggravated assault, three weapon offenses, and obstruction of justice. His arrest came after a chaotic scene involving gunshots fired near the Harbor Grand and The Oasis condominiums on Palm Beach Boulevard.

According to police, Romero fired shots at doors on the fifth and seventh floors of the Harbor Grand and The Oasis condominiums, escalating fears in the community. Despite the violent incident, authorities confirmed that Romero and Johnson were strangers with no prior known connection.

Details of the Incident and Investigation

Just before 9 a.m. Sunday, neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots near the Harbor Grand and The Oasis complexes. Emergency services from the Fort Myers Police Department and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office quickly responded to the scene. After the shooting, Romero was captured on security footage jumping behind fences and entering the back parking lot of the WINK News station, dragging a blue tarp before revealing a handgun.

Law enforcement pursued Romero, and Marine Operations units searched nearby Billy’s Creek for the weapon used during the incident. As of Monday, investigations continued in the area, with police revisiting the Fort Myers Broadcasting Center parking lot to gather further evidence.

Courtroom Appearance and Family Reaction

Romero appeared via video at his first court hearing Monday morning, where the victim’s family was present but chose not to speak publicly. Emotions ran high as the family watched Romero’s appearance on the courtroom screen, holding back tears.

In the wake of this tragic event, the Fort Myers community is rallying around Johnson’s loved ones, offering support and condolences as they grieve the loss of a young man whose life was cruelly cut short.

A Community Mourns

Alex Johnson’s death is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the senseless violence that can strike unexpectedly. His family, friends, and colleagues remember him not only for his dedication and hard work but for the love and joy he brought into their lives.

As the investigation proceeds and the judicial process unfolds, the community hopes that justice will be served and that the memory of Alex Johnson will continue to inspire those who knew him.

 More details will be provided as they become available.