The historic Old Seven Mile Bridge turned into a scene of panic early Saturday morning after a Key West man allegedly jumped the gates of Pigeon Key and attempted to break into employee quarters.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded to the small island around 1:15 a.m. on April 25, 2026, following reports of an intruder on the property.
According to authorities, 37-year-old Nicholas Robert Matott gained access to the restricted area by hopping over the perimeter gate, an action that triggered a motion-activated light.
The sudden light alerted a woman staying on the grounds, who looked out to find a stranger on the property.
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When she told the man the site was closed and he needed to leave, Matott reportedly refused. The situation escalated quickly as the suspect began screaming and pacing the floor, eventually trying to force his way into the bedroom where the victim had barricaded herself for safety.
Deputies arriving at the scene conducted a sweep of the area and discovered Matott hiding underneath a nearby structure. Upon his arrest, officers found him in possession of a cell phone and a charger that belonged to a resident of the island.
Matott has been charged with multiple counts of burglary and was booked into the local jail. While he remains in custody, investigators noted that more charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
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