Convicted felon accused of using stolen gun to shoot, kill woman in North Fort Myers

NORTH FORT MYERS, Fla. —

A convicted felon from Colorado was arrested in North Fort Myers after being accused of shooting and killing a woman Wednesday night.

According to the Lee County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a home on Delft Avenue regarding reports of a shooting.

After arriving at the scene, deputies found a female victim suffering from a gunshot wound. The LCSO said lifesaving measures were initiated, but the victim died from her injuries.

Deputies determined that the suspected person who shot her was Joseph Delnegro, 49, a convicted felon out of Colorado, the LCSO said.

Due to his status as a felon, Delnegro did not have his rights restored to legally possess a firearm, and the firearm found in his possession was confirmed to be stolen, the LCSO said.

Delnegro was arrested and faces charges of felony murder, grand theft of a firearm and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

"This is a prime example of why laws are in place and should be abided by. An innocent life was lost yesterday because of careless acts made by a convicted felon," said Sheriff Carmine Marceno. "Our Major Crimes Unit detectives' swift response and investigative efforts were critical in quickly determining the facts of this case and ensuring accountability."

DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.