UPDATE: A British man, Mark Raymond Gibbon, aged 62, has been arrested for allegedly attempting to drown his daughter-in-law during a family vacation in Davenport, Florida, on Sunday afternoon. The shocking incident unfolded at the Solterra Resort when a heated argument over grandchildren escalated into violence.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Gibbon is now facing serious charges, including attempted second-degree murder and two counts of battery. The confrontation occurred in the backyard swimming pool of their vacation rental, prompting neighbors to report a disturbance.
Witnesses described a disturbing scene where Gibbon reportedly pushed his 33-year-old daughter-in-law under the water multiple times. In a desperate attempt to save her mother, the woman’s 9-year-old daughter jumped into the pool, highlighting the traumatic nature of the incident.
Deputies arrived shortly after being notified by concerned neighbors and were met with Gibbon’s resistance, which only ceased when two nearby vacationers informed him they had called law enforcement. Sheriff Grady Judd condemned Gibbon’s actions, stating, “It’s great that Polk County draws visitors from all across the world, but we expect vacationers to behave while they visit with us.”
The sheriff warned that Gibbon may find himself spending “a lot more time in Florida than he had anticipated,” as he remains in custody at the South County Jail with no bond. This alarming case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise during what is meant to be a relaxing family getaway.
As the situation develops, authorities urge any witnesses or additional victims to come forward. This incident not only raises concerns about safety in vacation rentals but also poses questions about family dynamics that can spiral out of control.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.