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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 14, 2026Miami-Dade

Family of Nathaniel Baez files lawsuit against Walmart following 2023 fatal shooting in Florida City

The family of Nathaniel Baez has filed a lawsuit against Walmart, alleging the company failed to prevent a fatal confrontation at its Florida City store in 2023. The suit claims that a former Walmart employee escalated a dispute by calling armed acquaintances to the store instead of notifying management.

lawsuitpublic safetyretailcrime
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Why It Matters

The seeks to hold a major retailer legally responsible for the actions of an employee during a workplace incident that resulted in one death and one injury.

Key Facts

  • The shooting occurred at approximately 3 p.m. at the Walmart located at 33501 South Dixie Highway in Florida City.
  • Nathaniel Baez, 23, was killed during the incident.
  • A 72-year-old bystander was shot in the foot and survived.
  • The incident began as an altercation involving Nathaniel Baez, a Walmart employee, and members of Baez's group.
  • Former Walmart employee Roberto Acevedo allegedly called armed friends to the store instead of contacting management.
  • Steve Lestin, 28, was arrested and is charged with second-degree murder in connection with the shooting.
  • The lawsuit alleges Walmart failed to take appropriate measures to prevent the confrontation.
  • The incident was captured on store surveillance cameras.

Who's Mentioned

personNathaniel Baez“Deceased victim of the shooting.”organizationWalmart“The retail chain where the incident occurred and the defendant in the lawsuit.”personRoberto Acevedo“Former Walmart employee involved in the initial altercation.”personSamuel Baez“Father of Nathaniel Baez.”personBetsabe Santos“Mother of Nathaniel Baez.”location33501 South Dixie Highway“Address of the Walmart store.”locationFlorida City“Location of the Walmart store.”personTodd Michaels“Attorney representing the Baez family.”personSteve Lestin“The alleged shooter, currently facing second-degree murder charges.”