A Florida jury has convicted 18-year-old Thomas Stein of first-degree felony murder and attempted robbery charges in the tragic 2024 shooting death of 15-year-old Kayla Rincon-Miller in Cape Coral. The verdict, delivered on May 4, 2026, after approximately five hours of deliberations following a six-day trial in Fort Myers, brings a significant development in a case that has drawn widespread attention across Southwest Florida.
Details of the Crime
On March 17, 2024, Kayla Rincon-Miller was walking with friends after watching a movie and heading to get food when an SUV began following them. A group exited the vehicle and attempted to rob the teens. During the confrontation, Kayla was shot at close range and later died from complications of the gunshot wound.
Prosecutors argued that Stein played a central role in the attempted robbery, supplying the vehicle and weapon involved. The incident highlighted ongoing community concerns about youth violence and gun crime in the region.
Trial Highlights and Key Testimony
The trial featured emotional moments, including testimony from Kayla’s friends Emma Wright and Louann Dejaie, who described the harrowing events. Medical examiner testimony confirmed the close-range nature of the fatal shot.
Co-defendant Christopher Horne Jr., who reached a plea deal, testified against Stein, stating they planned to commit robberies that night and that Stein fired the shot. Horne claimed he later disposed of evidence, including his phone and the gun.
Stein took the stand in his own defense, denying he shot Kayla. He testified that he tried to intervene and break up the confrontation, claiming the gun discharged accidentally, and alleged additional individuals were involved beyond him and Horne.
The defense challenged Horne’s credibility, portraying him as motivated by a favorable plea deal. Despite conflicting accounts, the jury found Stein guilty on the main charges.
Note: The trial had a chaotic start with jury selection delayed due to a hallway altercation involving families of the defendants.
Verdict and Sentencing
The jury convicted Thomas Stein of:
- First-degree felony murder
- Three counts of attempted robbery with a firearm
Stein faces a likely life sentence. Sentencing is scheduled for July 2026.
Kayla’s family expressed relief and gratitude toward law enforcement and prosecutors following the verdict, though the loss remains profound.
Community Impact
The case has sparked discussions on teen crime, robbery violence, and public safety in Cape Coral and Lee County. It serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of youth involvement in criminal activity and the irreversible consequences of gun violence.
This article will be updated as more details on sentencing and any appeals become available.