In a shocking courtroom incident, Joseph Zieler, a Florida man sentenced to death for a double murder committed in 1990, physically attacked his attorney. Zieler, convicted of killing 11-year-old Robin Cornell and her 32-year-old babysitter Lisa Story in Cape Coral, elbowed his lawyer, Kevin Shirley, in the face during a hearing. The attack, captured on video, shows Zieler beckoning Shirley closer before striking him. Bailiffs swiftly intervened, subduing Zieler and ensuring the attorney's safety.

Shirley, who downplayed the incident, stated he had "taken a lot better shots" in his past. Zieler's motion for a retrial was subsequently denied by the judge. This courtroom outburst occurred as Zieler seeks to appeal his double death sentence. During the sentencing, the victims' families delivered powerful impact statements, expressing the enduring pain caused by the tragic events of over three decades ago. Jan Cornell, Robin's mother, spoke of her commitment to seeking justice for her daughter and Lisa Story.

State Attorney Amira Fox, who dedicated years to the case, described the courtroom atmosphere as chilling, reflecting on the long journey to achieve justice. The incident underscores the raw emotions and complexities often present in high-profile criminal cases. Zieler's violent act adds another layer to an already disturbing case, further impacting the families of the victims and highlighting the challenges faced by legal professionals involved in such proceedings.