AUBURNDALE, FL – A Florida woman faces serious charges after allegedly targeting another woman with her vehicle upon discovering the woman in the company of her estranged husband.
Christdon Reese, 41, was arrested on Friday and charged with attempted first-degree murder, trespassing, and violation of probation, according to authorities from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. The incident occurred on April 10, when a woman and her boyfriend were making their way to a friend’s residence after a stop at a Circle K gas station in Auburndale, roughly 50 miles southwest of Orlando.
The situation quickly escalated when Reese, reportedly upset at seeing her estranged husband walking with the victim, made a U-turn in a nearby parking lot and accelerated towards them. According to statements made by the sheriff’s office, Reese struck the woman with her Volkswagen Jetta as she attempted to run down a driveway to avoid being hit.
Surveillance footage from Circle K captured the moments leading up to the incident, with Reese initially driving south before making the U-turn to pursue the couple. Following the collision, Reese fled the scene at high speed.
Emergency responders soon arrived, and the injured woman was taken to a local hospital. Medical evaluations revealed she sustained two fractures in her spine. Despite the severity of her injuries, doctors anticipate a full recovery.
Sheriff Grady Judd emphasized the danger inherent in domestic-related incidents. “When people allow their emotions to take over, it can result in injury or even death,” he said, expressing relief that the victim survived and urging restraint in heated situations.
At the time of this incident, Reese was reportedly on probation due to a prior retail theft conviction in Osceola County, which contributed to the charge of probation violation. Additionally, Reese was charged with trespassing after the homeowner at the scene confirmed she was not authorized to be on his property.
Currently in custody at Central County Jail, Reese is being held without bond as the case proceeds through the legal system.
