A man in Port Charlotte is accused of using an axe to attack a 20-year-old inside a car, reportedly over a relationship dispute, according to Charlotte County deputies.
Video footage captured the reported incident on Gretchen Avenue near Happiness Street on Sunday night. A doorbell camera recorded the attack from another angle, showing the driver-side windows being repeatedly smashed. One person can be heard shouting, "Grab the axe!"
Charlotte County deputies arrested Maxwell Eisemann, 21, saying he reportedly attempted to open the car doors, damaged the vehicle, and tried to punch the victim and pull him out.
Deputies said the attack began with a relationship dispute. Investigators reported Eisemann became angry after learning his girlfriend had gone on a few dates with the victim during a brief break in their relationship. The girlfriend later identified Eisemann from the video recorded during the attack.
Speaking over the phone with Gulf Coast News, the girlfriend said Eisemann is not a "violent, vicious person."
Broken glass remains scattered along the street where deputies said the victim was hurt shortly after arriving home from work.
Additional footage shows a Ford Bronco that Eisemann was in reportedly speeding away after a neighbor is heard in the video yelling, "Hey, hey! What are you doing? Cops are on their way, guys!" Deputies said the SUV's license plate was taped over to avoid identification.
The victim’s parents rushed outside after hearing the commotion, trying to make sense of the shattered glass and screaming. Deputies said three people were inside the Bronco during the attack, with two exiting the vehicle while one stayed behind the wheel.
Eisemann turned himself in at the Charlotte County Jail early Wednesday morning, but deputies are still investigating to identify the two other suspects.
The victim’s family said they hope justice will be served, as they remain fearful knowing some suspects are still at large.
If you know any information on who the other two people are, you are asked to contact the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office.
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