CLEARWATER, Fla. – Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office deputies have arrested a man for Attempted Murder in the First Degree following a brutal, unprovoked stabbing at a Clearwater gas station early Wednesday morning.
The suspect, identified as 44-year-old Enrique Lopez, faces multiple charges, including Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Resisting an Officer with Violence, in addition to the attempted murder charge.
The attack occurred on Wednesday at approximately 12:54 am at the Rally Gas Station, located at 3400 Ulmerton Road. Investigators say the victim, 51-year-old Dale Jabonero, was smoking a cigarette when he was approached by Lopez, who asked for a smoke. The two conversed briefly before Lopez walked away.
Moments later, Lopez returned and, without provocation, punched Jabonero in the face. When Jabonero attempted to walk away, Lopez allegedly followed him and continued to punch him until he fell to the ground. Once Jabonero was down, Lopez reportedly stabbed him repeatedly, investigators say.
Deputies arrived on the scene, and Lopez retreated inside the gas station before being taken into custody.
The victim, Dale Jabonero, was transported to the hospital, where he is listed in stable condition.
Lopez was also transported to the hospital for medical clearance before being transported to the Pinellas County Jail, where he is currently being held.
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