A man acted in self-defense during a confrontation outside a Lakeland, Florida restaurant, fatally shooting one individual and injuring another. Authorities report the shooter is cooperating and no charges have been filed at this time.

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LAKELAND, FL (3-minute read) — A late-night confrontation at a Lakeland restaurant escalated into a deadly shooting Thursday night, with authorities stating that a man acted in self-defense when he opened fire, killing one and injuring another.

According to the Lakeland Police Department, the incident occurred just after 9:30 p.m. at Cali Rose 15 Kitchen on Ariana Street. Investigators say 28-year-old Jesse Banks and 26-year-old Nicholas Lue started an altercation with a 24-year-old man outside the restaurant’s front entrance. The dispute quickly turned physical when Banks struck the man on the head with his fist.

The situation became more dangerous when a fourth individual opened the restaurant door. Police say Banks and Lue then escalated the threat by pointing a firearm at the individual. Reacting to the threat, the 24-year-old drew his own legally possessed firearm and fired several shots.

Both Banks and Lue were struck. Banks was later pronounced dead at a hospital, while Lue sustained injuries and is expected to survive.

Authorities have confirmed that the shooter remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation. As of Friday morning, no charges had been filed, and the incident is being evaluated under Florida’s self-defense laws, which include both “Stand Your Ground” and justifiable use of force statutes.

Florida’s Self-Defense and Concealed Carry Laws

In Florida, individuals who carry a firearm lawfully may use it in defense if they reasonably believe they are facing an imminent threat of death or serious injury. Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law removes the duty to retreat before using deadly force in certain circumstances, especially when the individual is in a place they have a right to be.

This case highlights the importance of understanding not just firearm handling, but also legal justification in defensive scenarios. While the right to defend oneself is protected, each case must be carefully investigated to determine whether the use of force was proportional and legal.

Safety Tip: If you carry a firearm, know your state’s self-defense laws inside and out. Training isn’t just about marksmanship—legal education and situational awareness are equally critical.