A tragic incident in Fort Myers, United States, has claimed the life of a Bangladeshi expatriate woman, Yasmin, who was fatally attacked at her workplace. The attack occurred on Thursday (April 2) at approximately 7:14 a.m. at a gas station and convenience store on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Yasmin was pronounced dead at 7:27 a.m., just 13 minutes after the assault.
According to reports, the incident stemmed from an altercation the previous night. A Haitian immigrant had attempted to withdraw money from an ATM at the store but was unsuccessful. He then demanded money from Yasmin. She calmly explained that the ATM was controlled by a vendor and suggested contacting customer service, as the issue might have been caused by an incorrect PIN. Although the situation appeared to de-escalate, the suspect reportedly remained agitated.
Surveillance footage from the following morning shows the suspect first vandalizing Yasmin’s vehicle. When she stepped outside, he suddenly attacked her with a hammer, striking her repeatedly. She collapsed at the scene. The attacker, described as wearing a yellow T-shirt, black shorts, and a backpack, fled immediately afterward.
Yasmin was originally from Chandraganj in Lakshmipur, Bangladesh. Family members said she had moved to the United States with her two teenage daughters in pursuit of a better future. Her death has left the family and the local Bangladeshi community in deep mourning.
After the attack, authorities warned that the suspect was armed and dangerous, urging residents not to approach him or open their doors. Several nearby schools were temporarily placed on lockdown as a precaution.
Following an extensive search, police arrested the suspect about a mile from the crime scene near Dunbar Park. The suspect, identified as Rolbart Joaquin (40), has been charged with murder and criminal mischief. He is currently being held at the Lee County Jail without bond.
This incident highlights the reality that sudden acts of violence can occur even in developed countries like the United States. Community members are urged to remain vigilant, avoid escalating confrontations, and prioritize personal safety in uncertain situations.
