St. Petersburg Tile Worker’s Father Fatally Shoots Contractor in Self-Defense During Payment Dispute

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — A fatal shooting at a residential construction site has been ruled an act of justifiable self-defense following an intense altercation over payment issues. The incident took place at approximately 1:30 p.m. at a vacant property under renovation on 1400 Farragut Drive North.

The confrontation reportedly began between Mostafa M. Ah Abdo, 38, a general contractor, and a subcontracted tile worker over unresolved payment concerns. As tensions escalated, the subcontractor allegedly began damaging completed tile work in frustration. In response, Abdo reportedly retrieved a firearm from his vehicle and returned to the scene, threatening the tile worker with the weapon.

At this point, Yamel P. Benitez, 52, the tile worker’s father and a fellow subcontractor at the site, drew his own firearm and fired at Abdo in defense of his son. Abdo was struck and ultimately succumbed to his injuries on the scene.

Following an investigation, authorities determined that Benitez’s actions were legally justified as self-defense of another. St. Petersburg Police confirmed that Benitez would not face charges in connection with the shooting.

In confrontational situations, tensions can escalate rapidly, especially when a weapon enters the equation. This incident highlights both the importance of de-escalation and the need to understand lawful self-defense boundaries. Under Florida law, using deadly force is permitted to protect oneself or others when facing an immediate threat of death or serious injury. While avoiding violence is always preferable, this case demonstrates the critical role of self-defense when no other options remain.