A 73-year-old man from Winter Springs, Florida, was arrested this week after an incident involving a child riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. The man, identified as Richard Shafer, was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
According to reports, Shafer pulled out a knife and pointed it at the child because he was upset that the boy was not riding in the designated bike lane. Shafer claimed he felt his life was in danger as the child was riding the bike 'right at him' on the sidewalk.
The Winter Springs Police Department responded to a disturbance call near Winter Springs Boulevard and Tuskawilla Road. Dispatchers had received a report of a man brandishing a knife at a child.
Upon arrival, officers spoke to the child victim who recounted the incident. The boy stated that Shafer stopped him while he was riding his bike home and pulled out a military-style knife, pointing it at him for not using the bike lane.
The child, visibly frightened, apologized to Shafer before riding his bike home. Police later located and arrested Shafer, who was found in possession of a knife matching the description provided by the child. Additionally, Shafer was carrying a gun at the time of his arrest.
This alarming incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining composure and seeking peaceful resolutions in conflicts, especially when involving children. The Winter Springs Police Department acted swiftly to address the situation and ensure the safety of the community.
