LEE COUNTY, FL — Fisherman Fatally Shot While Preparing for Outing with Fiancé
Lee County, FL — June 9, 2025 — A peaceful morning turned tragic on Palm Beach Boulevard when Alex Johnson, 35, was shot and killed while preparing to go fishing with his fiancée. The couple had just arrived to launch his boat early Monday morning when tragedy struck in the parking area.
Johnson—a devoted outdoorsman known for his love of boating and the sea—was pulling his boat into the water shortly before sunrise when a gunman approached and opened fire. His fiancée, setting up nearby, heard the shots and instinctively ran back, only to find him wounded in the parking lot.
She immediately called for help as Lee County emergency crews responded. Johnson was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition but sadly was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
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What We Know
•Victim: Alex Johnson, 35, an avid fisherman and beloved fiancé.
•Location: Parking area on Palm Beach Boulevard, Lee County.
•Timeline: Early morning, near boat ramp preparations for a planned fishing trip.
•Context: Shot while tending to his boat; fiancée discovered him and summoned aid.
•Medical Response: Johnson was transported to hospital, but died on arrival.
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Ongoing Developments
•Investigation: Lee County Sheriff’s Office homicide detectives are combing the scene, reviewing nearby surveillance, and interviewing any witnesses in the boating complex.
•Suspect Status: While no suspect has been publicly identified, authorities confirm an active homicide investigation is underway.
•Public Appeal: Investigators are urging anyone present at or around the boat ramp in the early morning hours to come forward—particularly individuals with surveillance footage or dashcam recordings.
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Community and Family Reaction
The tragedy has deeply shaken Johnson’s family and the wider community. Known for his generosity and bright spirit, Alex was cherished by friends and loved ones.
“He was always smiling, always excited for a day on the water. He loved life,” said a close family member in an emotional statement.
“He was heading out for a morning fishing trip—simple, happy, and everyday. Now he’s gone. It just makes no sense.”
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Next Steps
•Investigators ask anyone with information—no matter how small—to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division.
•Tips can be submitted anonymously through Lee Crime Stoppers at 1‑888‑468‑TIPS.
•Authorities are also reviewing surveillance video from nearby businesses and residences near Palm Beach Boulevard.
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Final Thoughts
What began as a routine, joyful moment—a couple launching a boat for a relaxing fishing excursion—ended in tragedy, leaving behind a community in mourning and a fiancée haunted by sudden loss. The senseless violence that claimed Alex Johnson’s life underscores the fragility of safety and the importance of vigilance.
If you have any information, please contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers immediately. Your tip could be the key to justice and closure for Alex’s family.