DeLand, FL – In what can only be described as the most Florida Man way to handle minor inconveniences, 22-year-old Daniel Duarte decided that the appropriate response to a polite honk was gunfire. Because nothing says “chill vibes” like bullets flying at 2 a.m.
The Incident: A Tale of Impatience and Overreaction
The victim and his friend were cruising down Woodland Boulevard when they encountered Duarte’s red car moving at the speed of a sloth on Ambien. Naturally, they honked—because that’s what you do when someone’s driving like they’re trying to count every crack in the road.
But Duarte? Oh no. He wasn’t about to let that slide. Instead of, you know, speeding up or pulling over, he chose violence. He parked, waited for them to pass, and then—BANG BANG—let loose a couple of rounds at their car like he was auditioning for Grand Theft Auto: Florida Edition.
One bullet even grazed the passenger’s hoodie, narrowly missing his head. Talk about a close shave—literally.
The Aftermath: Justice (Sort Of) Served
Police tracked down Duarte 13 hours later, probably because his car was the only one in DeLand with a bumper sticker that read “Honk If You Want to Get Shot.” He was arrested and charged with:
– Aggravated assault (because shooting at people is frowned upon)
– Discharging a firearm in public (Florida Man forgot he wasn’t at a range)
– Firing into a vehicle (which, believe it or not, is illegal)
But don’t worry—he’s already out on bond, because Florida’s legal system operates on “Eh, he’ll be fine” logic.
Police Advice: Maybe Don’t Shoot People Over Honking?
DeLand PD, in their infinite wisdom, reminded everyone to “be patient on the roadways.” Because apparently, some folks need to be told that bullets ≠ hazard lights.
No one was hurt (this time), but let this be a lesson: If you honk in Florida, you might just get a lead-based response. Stay safe out there, folks—and maybe invest in bulletproof windows.