Florida driver arrested after allegedly trying to strike LGBTQ running club with car: Police
A disturbing incident occurred at a local park in Florida, where a driver was arrested for allegedly attempting to hit members of an LGBTQ running club with his vehicle. The suspect, identified as Ihab Mustafa El Mahmoud, 43, was apprehended by the West Palm Beach Police Department after making multiple passes and driving recklessly in an attempt to strike the group before fleeing the scene.
According to police reports, witnesses observed El Mahmoud accelerating towards the runners, making a second attempt to hit them. He then drove erratically along sidewalks, through grass, and up an embankment before fleeing eastbound. Further investigation revealed that El Mahmoud became upset over a perceived comment by a male member of the running club, which led to his aggressive behavior.
The running club, known as Night Runners WPB, hosts walks and runs every Monday and Thursday night. Rudolph Galindo, a longstanding member of the club, recounted a harrowing experience when El Mahmoud’s vehicle was heading straight towards him after he inquired if the suspect was there for the running group. Galindo’s quick actions to alert other runners potentially averted a catastrophe as many sought cover behind trees.
Galindo described the incident as traumatic, emphasizing the fear and chaos that ensued as the suspect’s car accelerated towards the group. He estimated the vehicle’s speed to be between 60 to 80 mph, posing a significant threat to the runners’ safety. Despite the scare, Galindo reassured club members that steps are being taken to ensure their safety during future runs.
Following the incident, police located El Mahmoud attempting to remove the license plate from his SUV in a parking garage. He was promptly arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated assault with the intent to commit a felony and one count of reckless driving. Authorities are also considering the possibility of charging him with a hate crime, with his charges under review for potential enhancement under the state’s hate crime statute.
El Mahmoud is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, with legal representation yet to be disclosed. The alarming incident serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and safety for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The community stands together in solidarity against such acts of aggression and intolerance.
