A warrant execution on Florida’s Treasure Coast turned volatile Monday when a suspect allegedly unleashed a canister of bear repellent on a swarm of sheriff’s deputies and a police K-9, leaving nearly a dozen law enforcement personnel requiring treatment for chemical exposure.
Kyle Young, 31, remains in custody at the Indian River County Jail on a $57,500 bond. He faces a slate of charges, including resisting arrest and eight counts of battery on a law enforcement officer, following the November 24 incident along Old Dixie Highway.
The Chase
According to the arrest affidavit, the confrontation began when Sergeant David Rodriguez spotted Young walking near the 2000 block of Old Dixie Highway Southwest. Rodriguez utilized the PA system in his marked patrol unit to order Young to stop.
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Investigators say Young ignored the command and bolted into a nearby wood line. As additional units arrived—wearing vests clearly marked “SHERIFF” with gold star patches—Young reportedly emerged but continued to refuse orders, shouting at deputies to leave him alone.
The situation escalated when Young allegedly produced a canister of bear spray and fled into an open parking lot in the 1700 block.
“Jefe” Deployed
With Young refusing to surrender or show his hands, Deputy Castano deployed his K-9 partner, Jefe, to subdue the suspect.
“Once Jefe made contact with Kyle, Kyle utilized his Bear Spray, propelling chemicals toward Jefe,” the arresting deputy wrote in the charging document.
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The chemical cloud was potent enough to incapacitate not just the dog, but eight surrounding deputies, causing burning in their eyes, skin, and throats. A deputy eventually ended the standoff by deploying a Taser, causing Young to fall to the ground.
A Loaded Scene
While securing Young, deputies discovered a black firearm with a wooden handle lying on the ground next to his left arm. The weapon was seized for safety.
The affidavit notes a critical detail regarding the suspect’s state of mind during the altercation. A victim connected to the case informed deputies that Young has been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia, depression, and severe anxiety, and had reportedly stopped taking his medication prior to the incident.
Young was transported to Indian River Hospital at Cleveland Clinic for medical clearance before being booked. He is scheduled for arraignment on February 20, 2026.
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