A 42-year-old Florida man is in custody after authorities say he deliberately drove his vehicle into a local thrift store, injuring six people, three critically.
Donald Peyton-Lee Russell Jr. of Naples was arrested on Thursday, April 10, following the incident at St. Matthew’s House Boutique Thrift Store on Airport-Pulling Road Thursday morning.
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to reports of the crash at 10:40 a.m., finding a scene of chaos and significant damage. According to detectives, Russell intentionally drove his 2024 black Honda sedan through the storefront’s plate glass windows, traveling nearly the entire length of the building and striking multiple individuals inside.
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“Our deputies, along with fire, EMS and law enforcement crews, responded with urgency and professionalism,” said Sheriff Kevin Rambosk in a statement. “Their actions not only prevented further harm, but also helped bring calm to a chaotic situation.”
Six people were injured in the incident and transported to area hospitals. Three victims sustained traumatic injuries. Greater Naples Fire Rescue District, City of Naples Fire Department, Collier County EMS, and Florida Highway Patrol also responded to the scene.
Russell was apprehended at the scene and transported to a hospital for evaluation and treatment. Following an interview with detectives, he was arrested and booked into the Collier County jail.
He faces three counts of aggravated battery causing great bodily harm, three counts of aggravated battery using a deadly weapon (his vehicle), and criminal mischief over $1,000.
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“Based on the circumstances and the evidence we have at this time these are the most appropriate charges,” a CCSO statement indicated.
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