Hanna Pleads Guilty to 2021 Stabbing Death of Robert Hoolahan

State Attorney Melissa Nelson announces that Russell Hanna pleaded guilty to Second-Degree Murder for the killing of Robert “Bob” Hoolahan. Immediately after the plea, the Honorable Kevin Blazs sentenced Hanna to 28 years in Florida State Prison followed by 10 years of probation and compliance with mental health counseling. Hoolahan’s family was present in the courtroom and provided victim-impact statements.

On March 11, 2021, officers with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office responded to a stabbing at a fast-food restaurant on Old St. Augustine Road. The attack occurred in broad daylight around 3:30 p.m. and was captured on surveillance video. Hanna and Hoolahan knew each other, and Hoolahan was charging his phone inside the restaurant. They were sitting at a table together when Hanna suddenly stabbed Hoolahan in the neck and chest. Hoolahan grabbed his neck and stumbled through the restaurant for help. Hanna ran from the scene while employees called 911. Jacksonville Fire and Rescue took Hoolahan to the hospital where he later died. A patrol unit found Hanna nearby and took him into custody. Officers recovered a knife from inside Hanna’s backpack. After his arrest, Hanna confessed to the stabbing.

The case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Katelyn Johnston.