Cape Coral, Fla. – A violent domestic incident in Cape Coral has been ruled an act of self-defense after a teenage boy fatally shot his mother’s boyfriend to protect his uncle from a brutal attack. The Cape Coral Police Department has confirmed that no charges will be filed against the minor involved.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday night when 55-year-old Norbert Mess Jr. got into a heated argument with his girlfriend at their home near Northwest 25th Place. Fearing for her safety, the woman called her brother for help. Upon arriving, the brother was confronted by Mess, who was armed with a solid wooden rod and brass knuckles.
Without hesitation, Mess began savagely beating the woman’s brother with brass knuckles and a rod, striking him repeatedly. Witnessing the violent assault, the woman’s son, a minor who lived in the home, ran inside to grab a firearm. The boy returned and pointed the gun at Mess, firing a warning shot into the air, hoping to stop the attack.
However, Mess ignored the warning and continued his relentless beating of the boy’s uncle. Fearing that his uncle could be beaten to death, the boy fired multiple shots at Mess, striking him 8 to 9 times. Mess staggered away but collapsed in a nearby field. Despite the officers’ efforts to provide aid, Mess was pronounced dead [DRT] at the scene.
Cape Coral Police responded quickly to the 911 call, securing the area and beginning their investigation. They executed search warrants at two locations connected to the incident, gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses. After reviewing the evidence and statements, detectives determined that the boy’s actions were justified.
“All parties involved cooperated with the investigation,” said Officer Mercedes Simonds of the Cape Coral Police Department. “The son acted in self-defense to protect his uncle from serious bodily harm or death. As a result, no charges will be filed.”
Authorities confirmed that the firearm used in the shooting was legally owned. While they are still piecing together some aspects of the case, including the gun’s current location, they are confident in their findings that the shooting was a necessary act of self-defense.
This tragic incident has left the Cape Coral community reeling, highlighting the intense emotions and violence that can erupt in domestic disputes. Despite the outcome, it’s clear that the young boy’s actions were driven by a desperate need to save his uncle from a potentially fatal beating.
Hit 8-9 times, good shooting young man.
Sorry you had to do it, but glad you stepped up.
Good job, son! You stepped up and did what needed to be done.
Cops Arriving On Scene: “What a bloody Mess!”
Tragic story that should never have happened. But it had a pretty strong conclusion. I hope the kid knows he did the right thing.
The young man demonstrated that brass knuckles and a club are no match for a well aimed firearm . A tragedy that could have been avoided if the boyfriend would have exercised some self control . He will not be a problem ever again it appears .
Give that kid a scholarship.
ALWAYS call 911 first, then a family member if necessary.
The teen did not take a life, the attacker forfeited his life by his own action to use violence.