A Florida man has been convicted of first-degree murder in the fatal shooting of his friend, following a heated altercation that began with a disagreement over public urination. The shooting occurred on February 13, 2023, when Lloyd Preston Brewer III, 57, shot 21-year-old Garrett Hughes after he was caught urinating on the side of a building Brewer owned.
Details of the Incident
The tragic incident unfolded after both Brewer and Hughes had shared drinks at Conch Town Liquor & Lounge, a bar located in a strip mall owned by Brewer. According to security footage, Hughes, who had exited the bar without a shirt, was seen urinating on the side of Brewer’s building.
Brewer, who was reportedly intoxicated, followed Hughes outside and shot him in the abdomen, resulting in Hughes’ death before he could be transported to a hospital.
Brewer initially claimed he shot Hughes in self-defense. However, Assistant Monroe County State Attorney Joseph Mansfield argued that self-defense was not justifiable, stating, “The kid was never armed and never advanced on the shooter, the shooter advanced on him.” The jury ultimately rejected Brewer’s defense and convicted him of first-degree murder.
Wrongful Death Lawsuit
In addition to criminal charges, Brewer was also named in a wrongful death suit filed by Hughes’ parents. The suit accused Brewer and associated entities of liability for furnishing excessive alcohol to Brewer, a known habitual drunkard. It alleged that Brewer’s intoxication contributed to the fatal incident.
The suit did not name the bar itself but focused on the actions of the individuals and entities involved in the tragic event.
Trial and Verdict
After a trial, a jury found Brewer guilty of first-degree murder on January 21, 2026. Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield praised the jury’s decision, stating, “The jury saw the evidence, rejected Brewer’s account, and held him accountable for a premeditated killing.”
Sentencing
Brewer, who was initially charged with second-degree murder and held without bond, is scheduled to be sentenced on February 26, 2026. The conviction of first-degree murder carries a lengthy prison sentence, and Brewer will face the consequences of his actions in the coming weeks.
