Family Sues Walmart Following 2023 Fatal Shooting at Florida City Store

The family of Nathaniel Baez, a 23-year-old fatally shot during a confrontation at a Walmart store in Florida City, has filed a lawsuit against the retail giant seeking accountability for his death. The incident occurred around 3 p.m. on December 20, 2023, at the store located at 33501 South Dixie Highway when an altercation erupted between Baez, a Walmart employee, and members of his group.

According to law enforcement investigators, the confrontation involved then-employee Roberto Acevedo, who claimed he felt threatened by Baez and his companions. Rather than alerting a manager as required, Acevedo allegedly summoned armed associates to the store. When the situation escalated, gunfire erupted, leaving Baez dead and a 72-year-old shopper wounded in the foot.

Steve Lestin, 25 at the time of the incident and now 28, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection with the shooting. The family’s legal representation argues that Walmart bears direct responsibility for the tragedy due to Acevedo’s employment status and the company’s failure to implement adequate safety protocols on the sales floor.

Betsabe Santos, Baez’s mother, described the devastating impact of losing her son. “Your world shatters, your heart shatters,” she said, recounting the moment doctors informed her of his death. Baez had aspired to start his own landscaping business and frequently discussed his entrepreneurial dreams with his father, Samuel Baez.

Attorney Todd Michaels, representing the family, contends that Acevedo breached his fundamental responsibilities by failing to contact management and instead escalating the situation by bringing firearms into the store. Surveillance video captured the entire confrontation, according to the lawsuit filing. Walmart has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the case.