PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL – A Florida man will spend life in prison after committing a brutal attack on his ex-girlfriend and her mother, stirring calls for stringent justice in St. Johns County. Spencer Ross Pearson, 18, received the sentence during a hearing on Friday, Nov. 22, after pleading guilty to attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery charges in July.

The violent episode unfolded on June 3, 2023, outside a local restaurant, when Pearson targeted his ex-girlfriend, Madison Schemitz, then 17. Before the attack, there were allegations of stalking and harassment against him, laying a grim backdrop to the assault.

In her courageous defense, Schemitz’s mother, Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge, was also attacked. A third individual, Kennedy Armstrong, intervened, sustaining significant hand injuries while managing to restrain Pearson until authorities arrived. In a desperate act, Pearson attempted to take his own life by slitting his throat, but he survived and was taken into custody.

Schemitz, a budding softball talent from Ponte Vedra High School, endured about 15 stab wounds, which left her paralyzed from the chest down. Remarkably, despite the enormity of her injuries, Schemitz demonstrated incredible resilience and courage, walking across the stage to receive her high school diploma after months of intensive physical therapy.

In court, Pearson expressed remorse, acknowledging the irreversible impact of his actions. “I think of my terrible crimes committed every second of every day,” he admitted, although this did little to diminish the lasting trauma in the community and for the victims.

Schemitz, now embarking on her college journey, exuded hope and determination in her statement following the sentencing. She emphasized a focus on healing and rebuilding, acknowledging the long path ahead while drawing strength from support around her.

While the courtroom brought closure to one chapter, Schemitz looks to the future with optimism, intent on using her experiences to support others facing similar adversities. Her unwavering spirit serves as a beacon of hope amid the devastation left by Pearson’s actions.

As the community reflects on these events, the narrative of resilience and recovery is shaping conversations about support systems for victims of violent crimes and preventative measures for such tragic occurrences.