Palm Coast, Florida – A religious discussion outside a convenience store in North Florida turned into a violent altercation when a man expressed disagreements with the views of two other men, resulting in a serious assault, according to investigators.
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident took place at a Circle K gas station in Palm Coast around 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 17. One man suffered multiple stab wounds, while the other sustained facial bruises. Both victims survived the attack, with one of them being hospitalized, although specific details about their conditions were not disclosed.
Upon deputies’ arrival at the scene, they found one of the victims with multiple lacerations on his neck and back, as well as a deep puncture wound on his left side. The other victim had been repeatedly punched by the suspect, resulting in visible injuries to his back and side.
Investigations revealed that the victims and the suspect, identified as 22-year-old Hunter Detherow, engaged in a conversation that turned into a heated debate regarding religion. The situation escalated when Detherow allegedly physically assaulted the men, one of whom he stabbed before fleeing the scene on foot through a wooded area behind the store.
Despite initial unsuccessful attempts to locate Detherow, law enforcement officials ultimately apprehended him at his residence in Palm Coast on the following day. Detherow was charged with two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and was detained with a $300,000 bond.
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly emphasized the importance of resolving disagreements peacefully, stating that physical violence is not a solution to conflict, particularly in situations where disagreements arise from discussions on religion or politics.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences that can arise when disagreements escalate into violence, underscoring the need for respectful discourse and tolerance in differing opinions. Authorities are urging individuals to prioritize peaceful resolution and dialogue rather than resorting to physical harm in response to differences.
In light of the incident, the community is urged to engage in constructive conversations and seek peaceful resolutions to disputes, emphasizing the value of tolerance and open-mindedness in fostering positive interactions among individuals with differing perspectives.
Efforts are ongoing to raise awareness about the importance of communication and conflict resolution, with the hope of preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future. The incident highlights the significance of promoting understanding and empathy as essential components of building a harmonious and inclusive society.