British man charged with attempted murder in Florida

A man from the UK has been charged after a disturbing incident in a Florida holiday pool.

British man faces charges for attempting to drown daughter-in-law in Florida

Mark Raymond Gibbon, a 62-year-old British national, has been charged with attempted second-degree murder in Florida. He allegedly attempted to drown his daughter-in-law, a 33-year-old woman, during an argument at a rental home in Solterra Resort, Davenport. Witnesses reported hearing screams, and the victim's nine-year-old daughter jumped into the pool to rescue her mother. Local sheriff Grady Judd emphasized the expected behavior of visitors in Polk County, stating that Gibbon may face a longer stay in Florida due to his actions.

This incident highlights the deep-seated issues of family conflict that can erupt in stressful situations, even on what is supposed to be a joyful holiday. Gibbon’s behavior reflects a troubling lack of impulse control that escalated to a near-fatal situation. Such occurrences raise questions about the safety of travelers and the responsibilities that come with enjoying leisure time in foreign locations. The swift response by local authorities is commendable, showing a commitment to public safety despite the region's aim to attract tourists.

Highlights

This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for conflict in family dynamics, even on vacation.