Robbery in Dania Beach turns deadly after victim opens fire during confrontation with armed suspect

Dania Beach, Florida – A routine evening took a deadly turn in Dania Beach on Saturday, September 6, leaving a 40-year-old man dead and a 19-year-old man injured following a series of robberies at a local 7-Eleven. Detectives with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit are investigating the complex series of events, which involved multiple shootings and the use of firearms by both victims and suspects.

According to investigators, shortly before 7 p.m., Broward County Regional Communications received reports of a shooting near the 600 block of Stirling Road. BSO deputies responded promptly, discovering that the incident stemmed from two separate armed robberies at the 7-Eleven located at 800 Stirling Road.

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The initial robbery reportedly involved Justin Kessel, who allegedly confronted an adult male in the parking lot at gunpoint. Following that confrontation, Kessel entered the 7-Eleven and robbed the clerk inside. But the situation escalated dramatically as Kessel exited the store. Witnesses reported that Kessel ran back toward the adult male robbery victim, who had retrieved a firearm from his vehicle. Investigators said the victim fired multiple shots, striking Kessel.

“This investigation is ongoing as we work to piece together the exact sequence of events,” said a BSO spokesperson.

The adult male victim told detectives that after injuring Kessel, he held him at gunpoint until deputies arrived. During that time, another individual in a gray 2025 Honda CR-V allegedly tried to run him over. In fear for his life, the victim stated he jumped out of the vehicle’s path and fired additional shots. The driver of the CR-V, later identified as 40-year-old Melvin Presley, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported by paramedics to Memorial Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

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Kessel was taken into custody at the scene and transported by Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue to a local hospital for treatment of gunshot injuries. The adult male victim was detained for questioning but was later released. Authorities continue to investigate his involvement and are working with the Broward County State Attorney’s Office to determine if further charges will be filed.

The 19-year-old man injured during the incident, reportedly during the initial robbery or subsequent chaos, was treated for his injuries, though details regarding his condition have not been fully disclosed by authorities.

This incident underscores the volatility that can occur when firearms are involved during robberies. Law enforcement officials emphasized the importance of cooperation with authorities and the need for careful evaluation as they work to understand the chain of events.

Detectives with the Broward Sheriff’s Office continue to investigate, reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and ballistic evidence. The circumstances surrounding the robberies, the shootings, and the victims’ actions are all being carefully examined to determine whether additional charges may be warranted in connection with this deadly chain of events.

Authorities urge anyone with additional information about the robberies or the shootings to contact the Broward Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit. As the investigation unfolds, the community is reminded of the dangers associated with armed confrontations and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to maintain public safety in the area.