In the early hours of Sunday, March 1, 2026, the vibrant Orlando Haitian community was struck by tragedy with the death of 29-year-old Kendy Alexandre. A well-known and beloved local DJ, Alexandre was fatally shot outside the Bistro Paradise Restaurant and Bar on North Apopka Vineland Road. The incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. after the club had closed.
Friends and community members remember Alexandre as a positive force in Orlando's nightlife and Haitian music scene, known for bringing joy through his music. His sudden and violent death left many in shock. He was a father to a young child.
Orange County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the scene and found Kendy Alexandre with a gunshot wound to the head. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The investigation into his death quickly led to a suspect.
Later that same day, authorities arrested 33-year-old Rijkaard Florvil in connection with the fatal shooting. Florvil was charged with first-degree murder with a firearm and booked into the Orange County Jail without bond. According to investigators, surveillance footage captured Florvil running from his vehicle towards Alexandre, raising his arm, and a muzzle flash being seen before Alexandre collapsed. Witnesses at the scene positively identified Florvil as the shooter, with one stating they saw him fire directly at Alexandre's head.
During questioning, Florvil initially told deputies that he had fired two shots into the air to break up a fight that had broken out among a large group of people in the parking lot. He denied shooting Alexandre and blamed someone else for the murder. However, when confronted with the video evidence that contradicted his statement, he requested a lawyer and ceased his cooperation with the investigation. The case is proceeding through the legal system, with a judge ordering Florvil to remain in jail without bond.
