Marc Nelson Hess, a 45-year-old man from Miami, Florida, tragically lost his life on March 2, 2025, in a fatal shooting at a bar in southwest Miami-Dade. Born on November 5, 1979, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Hess was known for his deep care for his community and his willingness to help those around him. He worked as a journeyman sheet metal worker for the Dade County Public School system and had a passion for barbecuing, playing music, and auto mechanics.
He was a beloved father to his son, Brendan Hess, and was respected by many in his community.
The incident occurred at the Glades Club bar, located near Southwest 184th Avenue and 256th Street in the Redlands area. According to authorities, a physical altercation broke out inside the bar between 62-year-old Paul Edward Koch and 28-year-old Eduardo “Eddie” Perez, a bartender at the establishment. Koch was escorted out of the bar following the altercation but later returned with a handgun retrieved from his vehicle. When confronted again by Perez, Koch opened fire, fatally shooting the bartender multiple times. He then moved to the patio/outdoor bar area, where he shot Hess, who was enjoying live music at the venue. Friends of Hess described him as an avid drummer and a kind-hearted individual who likely attempted to intervene in the situation without realizing the severity of the danger.
Authorities confirmed that neither Hess nor Perez were armed or had provoked Koch before the shooting. A third individual, attempting to flee the scene, accidentally shot himself in the leg with his own firearm and was transported to a hospital for treatment. Koch was arrested and charged with two counts of second-degree murder. He appeared in bond court, where he was ordered to be held without bond.
Hess’s passing has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the community. His loved ones remember him as a generous and compassionate person who always sought to help others. His memory continues to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
