MIAMI BEACH, FL – A man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he slashed another man’s throat on Miami Beach following a request for a cigarette and a phone that was denied.

Police arrested Jack Daniel Gutierrez, 24, in connection with the violent incident, which occurred on the evening of October 23 along the bustling 1700 block of Collins Avenue. According to investigators, a man sitting near a lifeguard stand was approached by Gutierrez, who first asked if he could spare a cigarette. When told that the victim did not smoke, Gutierrez then requested to borrow the man’s cellphone, a request which was also declined.

Believing the encounter had ended, the victim was caught off guard when, moments later, Gutierrez returned and allegedly used a knife or similar weapon to slash the man’s neck. Police noted the assault left a large and deep wound running from ear to ear, causing severe bleeding at the scene.

Despite his injury, the victim was able to activate his phone’s voice assistant, Siri, to call 911. Emergency responders arrived quickly and transported him to a nearby hospital for treatment. While the current condition of the victim has not been released, officials say the swift arrival of medics played a key role in his survival.

Law enforcement launched a search for Gutierrez, who fled the scene after the attack. Officers eventually located and apprehended him on Thursday, several blocks from where the incident took place. Police reports indicate the victim later positively identified Gutierrez from a photo lineup.

Gutierrez faces an aggravated battery charge for allegedly causing great bodily harm with a weapon. He is currently being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center without bond, according to jail records.

Further investigation revealed that Gutierrez was on probation for a previous weapons offense at the time of this latest arrest. Authorities have not released additional details regarding his criminal history, but court records confirm his probationary status during the attack.

The disturbing incident has raised concerns among local residents and visitors about public safety in the popular Miami Beach area, which is frequented by tourists and locals alike. Police have increased patrols in the vicinity to reassure the community.

Gutierrez remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday. Miami-Dade County court officials have yet to announce whether additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.