Dania Beach, Florida shooting outside 7-Eleven leaves Melvin Presley deceased and Justin Kessel wounded in chaos
Dania Beach, Florida shooting outside 7-Eleven leaves Melvin Presley deceased and Justin Kessel wounded in chaos
Dania Beach, Fla. — What began as an ordinary evening in a convenience store parking lot ended in chaos, gunfire, and tragedy. Authorities said the violent chain of events unfolded outside a 7-Eleven on Sunday night, leaving 40-year-old Melvin Presley deceased and 19-year-old Justin Kessel wounded after a series of escalating confrontations.
According to investigators, the incident started when Kessel allegedly approached a man outside the store and robbed him at gunpoint. The confrontation quickly spread inside the 7-Eleven, where Kessel turned his weapon on the store clerk, demanding money. Officials said he grabbed a money tray before fleeing back toward the same victim he had confronted earlier.
By that time, the robbery victim had armed himself. Authorities reported that when Kessel moved back toward the man, gunfire erupted, striking Kessel and wounding him. The sudden escalation sparked panic in the parking lot, where witnesses described a scene of confusion, screaming, and people rushing for safety as shots rang out.
The situation took another tragic turn when Presley, driving a gray Honda CR-V, allegedly attempted to strike the armed victim with his vehicle. Investigators said shots tore through the SUV’s window, hitting Presley as he tried to speed away from the scene. His vehicle left shattered glass and bloodied pavement behind.
Presley managed to drive away but only briefly. Emergency responders later found him gravely injured and rushed him to Memorial Regional Hospital. Despite the best efforts of medical teams, Presley succumbed to his injuries, leaving family, friends, and the broader community mourning his sudden and violent passing.
Authorities stressed that the incident remains under active investigation. Detectives are gathering surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and piecing together the complex series of events that led to the tragedy. While Kessel survived his wounds, he remains in custody and is expected to face serious charges stemming from the robbery and subsequent shooting.
Community members expressed shock and sorrow over the violent outcome. Many described the 7-Eleven as a normally quiet stop for late-night shoppers, never expecting it to become the site of such devastation. Local residents placed flowers near the store in memory of Presley, offering condolences to his grieving family.
Law enforcement officials emphasized their commitment to thoroughly examining the circumstances of the case. They noted that situations involving multiple firearms, vehicles, and rapidly unfolding violence require extensive review to determine accountability. Officials also underscored the importance of community cooperation, urging witnesses with additional information to come forward.
As news of Presley’s passing spread, tributes poured in on social media. Friends and family members remembered him as a man with deep community ties, sharing heartfelt stories and photographs to celebrate his life. His death left a void in the lives of those closest to him, who now face unimaginable grief.
The Dania Beach tragedy stands as a sobering reminder of how quickly ordinary spaces can be transformed by violence. While investigators continue their work, the community reflects on the fragility of life and rallies to support Presley’s loved ones, offering strength and compassion during this difficult and painful time.
