Michael Reese couldn’t believe his ears when he found out that a priest had been stabbed just a few feet away from the store where he works.
A priest from St. Augustine is currently in the hospital recovering after being stabbed in what authorities are referring to as a “random” attack on Wednesday morning.
Arieana Gibbs, a 22-year-old suspect, is currently being held in the St. Johns County jail.
Michael Reese was filled with disbelief when he received the news that a man had been stabbed this morning on the corner of San Marco and Rohde Ave. The incident occurred just a few feet away from the store where Michael works.
Reese expressed her shock, saying, “It’s quite shocking, right down the street. It’s very odd considering the nature of this community. It’s just not something you would expect, extremely unusual.”
Matt Marino, from Trinity Parish on St. George St., was the man who was stabbed, as reported by St. Augustine police.
Gibbs was apprehended by the police in connection with the stabbing incident.
Reese remarked that such occurrences are uncommon and rarely happen. While there may be one or two isolated incidents, they are typically attributed to tourism, with individuals being overly enthusiastic or caught up in the excitement. However, acts of violence like the one described are highly unusual.
Gibbs is still in prison, but Marino is awake and in stable condition. The community is rallying behind him, sending their prayers and well wishes his way.
“I’m relieved that she was apprehended, and I’m grateful that he is safe and in stable condition. My thoughts and prayers are with him,” expressed Reese.