Fort Myers Murder Suspect Charged With Brutal Jail Assault

Yanko Romero, accused of fatally shooting 25-year-old Alex Johnson near a boat ramp in Fort Myers, Florida, faces additional charges after brutally assaulting fellow inmate Brandt Dernard Diaz in Lee County Jail, causing life-threatening injuries. Romero, who was arrested shortly after the shooting and denied bond, reportedly attacked Diaz while he was asleep, using fists, elbows, and feet, and had to be tased by officers to be restrained. Romero is also a person of interest in a 2023 Michigan slaying and has a history of mental health diagnoses including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Authorities maintain that Romero and Diaz were housed in accordance with Florida Model Jail Standards, though family members and deputies have criticized the jail for placing a homicide suspect with a non-violent inmate. During court proceedings, Romero interrupted, claiming he did not understand English, though he admitted otherwise when confronted. Fort Myers police continue to investigate Romero's ties to other violent crimes, while Johnson's family mourns the senseless act of violence.