Cape Coral investigators have determined the deadly shooting on NW 25th Place to be an act of self-defense.
According to the Cape Coral Police Department, Norbert Mess Jr. was found lying in the field next to the street with gunshot wounds. Officers provided aid, but he was pronounced dead on scene around 10:17 p.m. Tuesday.
Officials said they determined before the 911 call was made, Mess and his girlfriend were involved in an argument.
The woman then called her brother to help her and he arrived at the home to try and defuse the situation.
According to CCPD, when her brother arrived at the home, Mess was waiting outside with a solid wooden rod and brass knuckles.
The woman's son, who is a minor and lives at the residence, saw his uncle being beaten. Her son then retrieved a firearm and pointed it in Mess's direction to warn him.
Mess saw the firearm pointed at him but continued to batter the uncle, according to CCPD.
The son was in fear for his uncle's life and multiple shots were fired, CCPD said.
CCPD investigators executed search warrants at NW 13th Place and NW 25th Place.
Investigators determined the woman's son shot Mess in self-defense to protect his mother and uncle from serious injuries.
CCPD said no charges will be filed.
The woman's son and Mess were not biologically related.