Florida Man Alex Lopez Convicted of First-Degree Murder in FaceTime Robbery Killing

Tragic Robbery and Murder

• 🎯 A robbery gone wrong in Leesburg, Florida, resulted in the death of 51-year-old store clerk Ryed Shahida on May 30th, 2024.
• 📱 The victim was on a FaceTime call with his wife when the armed suspect entered the store, shot him, and then robbed the premises.
• 💔 His wife witnessed the horrific event unfold on her phone, hearing his final screams.

Investigation and Arrest

• 🔍 Investigators identified the suspect as 25-year-old Alex Lopez through witness tips and information from individuals close to him.
• 📸 Surveillance footage and witness descriptions, including distinctive features, aided in identifying Lopez.
• 📍 After a nearly month-long manhunt, Lopez was apprehended on June 26th in CMI.

Suspect's Background and Interrogation

• ⚖️ Court records revealed Alex Lopez had prior convictions for grand theft, burglary, and battery, and had recently been released from prison in February 2024.
• 🗣️ During interrogation, Lopez initially denied involvement but later discussed his struggles with methamphetamine use.
• ⚠️ He invoked his right to an attorney when confronted with evidence and charges, including homicide and armed robbery.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Several family members and his girlfriend, including his mother and sister, were arrested for aiding Lopez by hiding him.
• ⚖️ Prosecutors stated Lopez would not face the death penalty but was facing a mandatory life sentence.
• 📅 On December 17th, 2025, a jury convicted Alex Lopez of first-degree murder and robbery with a firearm.
• 🔒 He was sentenced to life in prison and is serving his sentence at Taylor Correctional Institution in Perry, Florida.