An Israel supporter was arrested for carving two large Stars of David into a Palestine supporter's car.
This happened at the Costco at Gulf Coast Town Center in Fort Myers.
On Feb. 19, the victim was shopping at the Gulf Coast Town Center Costco when he discovered his truck had been damaged. Deputies say the suspect, identified as William Hearn, used a key to carve the symbols into the truck. The victim believes the act was a result of a confrontation he had earlier with Hearn.
According to the victim, as he entered Costco, Hearn approached him and shouted, "Free Israel." The victim responded, "No, Free Palestine," and Hearn allegedly replied, “You’re on the wrong side of history.” The victim replied, "You're out of your (expletive) mind."
Deputies were able to confirm Hearn as the suspect after reviewing security footage, fingerprints, and his Costco card. He was arrested at his Fort Myers home on Thursday.
The victim also reported to authorities that the vandalism occurred because he was wearing a Palestine shirt and had a Palestine sticker on his vehicle.
While deputies believe the incident may have been a hate crime, Hearn was ultimately charged with criminal mischief. The victim estimates the cost to repair the damage to his truck at $3,000.