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Man found guilty in 2015 murder of Punta Gorda 7-Eleven clerk and arson at store

Michael Braun
The News-Press
A view of the person Punta Gorda police suspect of killing Kyle Farishian.

James Russo, 29, of Punta Gorda was found guilty in Charlotte County court Thursday of second-degree murder and first-degree arson in the 2015 killing of 7-Eleven store clerk Kyle Farishian.

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Early on Nov.1, Russo entered the convenience store at Bal Harbor Boulevard and Aqui Esta Drive.

When 18-year-old Farishian came in contact with him, Russo shot twice.
Russo then poured gasoline on the victim and the counter and set it ablaze.

Kyle Farishian, 18,

The entire crime was captured on the store’s surveillance video which helped lead to identifying the defendant. 

More:One man arrested, one sought in Gateway 7-Eleven armed robbery

Russo faces up to life in prison when he is sentenced on July 17.

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