Paul Nelson was a 26-year-old man from Fort Lauderdale who was found dead in his apartment on December 31, 2017. Initial reports said he had suffered multiple stab wounds, and authorities classified the death as a homicide. The Fort Lauderdale Police Department opened an extensive investigation.

Investigators concluded Paul had been involved in a heated altercation with an acquaintance shortly before his death. That acquaintance, described in reports as a 28-year-old male, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. At trial the defense argued self-defense while the prosecution relied on forensic analysis and witness testimony; a jury ultimately convicted the defendant of first-degree murder and sentenced him to life without parole.

Paul’s family have since been active in advocating for victims of violent crime. If anyone knew Paul or has information about the case, please share what you can to help the record of his life and death.