North Lauderdale, Florida — A disagreement over a parking space outside a Walmart turned deadly Tuesday afternoon after a retired U.S. Army veteran was fatally shot during an encounter that authorities say began as a verbal dispute.
Investigators with the Broward Sheriff’s Office are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, while prosecutors determine whether criminal charges will be filed against the woman who fired the gun.
Parking Spot Dispute Escalates Into Deadly Shooting
According to the Broward Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred shortly before 12:30 p.m. outside a Walmart in North Lauderdale.
Authorities said Bart Diguglielmo, 62, and an unidentified woman became involved in a verbal altercation over a parking space.
Investigators say the confrontation escalated, ending when the woman shot Diguglielmo.
Emergency responders transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Officials have not publicly identified the woman involved in the shooting.
Woman Claims She Acted in Self-Defense
Following the shooting, the woman told investigators that she fired her weapon in self-defense.
Authorities have not announced whether her claim is supported by the evidence, and no charges have been filed at this stage.
The Broward County State Attorney’s Office is expected to review the findings of the investigation before deciding whether criminal charges are appropriate.
Investigators continue collecting witness statements, surveillance footage, and other evidence from the scene.
Witnesses Describe Chaotic Moments
People who were at the shopping center described a chaotic scene immediately after the shooting.
One witness recalled hearing a woman screaming while law enforcement officers responded.
“I was walking up and heard a lady screaming,” witness David Anderson told CBS News Miami. “She was screaming and she was saying a lot of things.”
Video circulating on social media appears to capture portions of the confrontation.
The footage reportedly shows a woman standing outside her vehicle while holding a handgun as she argues with a man believed to be Diguglielmo.
During the exchange, both individuals can be seen pointing toward one another, and at one point the man appears to raise his hands while standing in an empty parking space.
The video then appears to show the woman continuing to point the firearm before a single gunshot is heard and the man falls to the ground.
Authorities have not commented publicly on the video’s role in the ongoing investigation.
Family Remembers Decorated Army Veteran
Diguglielmo’s family described him as a dedicated veteran and healthcare professional who spent much of his life serving others.
According to his sister, he served as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army during Operation Desert Storm and worked as both a combat medic and combat nurse.
Originally from Hammonton, New Jersey, Diguglielmo later settled in Lauderhill, Florida, where he also worked as a registered nurse before retiring.
His sister remembered him as a compassionate and peaceful individual.
Connecticut Swimmers Warned as Two Popular Beaches Suddenly Close During Dangerous Triple-Digit Heat
“He was a Christian man and a very good person and would not hurt anyone,” she said.
Friends and loved ones are now mourning the loss of a man they say devoted his life to military service, healthcare, and helping others.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The Broward Sheriff’s Office continues investigating the fatal shooting and has not released additional details regarding what led to the confrontation.
Officials have also not identified the woman involved while the case remains under review.
Prosecutors will determine whether criminal charges are warranted after reviewing the completed investigation and all available evidence.
What are your thoughts on disputes that escalate into deadly violence?
Do you think more measures are needed to prevent confrontations in public places from turning tragic? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.