Osceola County authorities have arrested 25-year-old Piero Estefano But-Castillo after an incident at the Quality Inn hotel in Kissimmee on Wednesday that left 55-year-old Robert Krusinowski dead. According to ClickOrlando, authorities responded to the scene around 4 p.m. to find But-Castillo covered in blood and actively assaulting Krusinowski with a fire extinguisher. Tragically, despite efforts to revive him by Osceola County Fire Rescue, Krusinowski was pronounced dead due to severe trauma to his head, face, and neck.
Further investigations revealed a more chilling account of the event; surveillance footage and witness cellphone videos captured But-Castillo dragging and repeatedly attacking the victim. Witnesses also described earlier violence, where But-Castillo was seen smashing hotel property. According to WESH, Krusinowski was a long-time hotel resident known to assist with hotel maintenance. However, Castillo stayed at the hotel until he was made to check out and was not allowed to extend his stay until January 8, leading up to the incident.
Sheriff Marcos Lopez described the attack during a news conference as a "brutal beating with the fire extinguisher," and images from the scene showed But-Castillo's hands covered in blood. Krusinowski was attempting "just trying to de-escalate the situation" before being beaten to death, Lopez said in a statement detailed by ClickOrlando. Deputies believe the attack to be intentional and premeditated, and But-Castillo now faces charges of first-degree murder and other related offenses.
Yesterday, the Quality Inn showed no signs of the violent encounter, leaving guests unaware of the tragedy that had unfolded just days prior. "This is a very peaceful area and very family oriented," said Jamie Caviggia, a guest staying nearby, as per WESH. "So to hear there was an incident really surprises both of us." Despite the shocking violence, the area, frequented by tourists and known for its friendly atmosphere, remains a stark contrast to the brutal episode that took life at the hotel.
But Castillo waived his first court appearance yesterday, with an attorney requesting the appearance to be moved to the following Saturday. He is currently being held with no bond amount and under an immigration hold since his reentry to Florida on a 90-day tourist visa effective January 1, after a previous stay in the United States as a non-immigrant student, reported ClickOrlando.
