A long-simmering disagreement over vodka and trash-sifting escalates into a violent confrontation, leaving one man injured and another facing serious charges.
A 61-year-old Key Largo man is in custody after allegedly attempting to kill his roommate with a crossbow during an early morning altercation on Tuesday. The suspect, identified as George Henry Balboni, was charged with attempted murder following the violent incident.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a residence on the 700 block of Largo Road at approximately 6 a.m. to investigate a reported disturbance. Upon arrival, a 69-year-old male victim led deputies to Balboni, who was found in the front yard of the home, bleeding from his face. Several arrows were discovered on and near the suspect.
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The victim told authorities that Balboni had lured him to a vehicle on the property and then attempted to shoot him in the head with a crossbow. The projectile narrowly missed its target, causing only a minor cut to the victim’s ear. A physical struggle ensued, during which the victim disarmed Balboni and used the crossbow to strike him, knocking him to the ground.
When questioned by deputies, Balboni admitted to shooting the crossbow at his roommate, whom he referred to as a “parasite.” He further stated that he had no remorse for his actions and that the attempted murder was premeditated.
Balboni revealed that the motive for the attack stemmed from a long-standing series of arguments between the two roommates. He cited a specific incident on Monday where the victim allegedly went through his trash and discovered a bottle of vodka, an event that, according to Balboni, led him to decide to kill the victim.
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“Violence is never the answer to a roommate dispute,” said Ramsay. “It’s much easier to separate yourself from the situation, but this person did the total opposite and now faces very serious criminal charges.”
Balboni was taken to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier for treatment of his head injuries before being transported to jail. The victim did not require hospitalization. The two men, who have a history of arguments, have reportedly lived together for several years.
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