On Monday, Joel Medina, a 51-year-old man well-known within the Hialeah community, was taken into custody following an altercation at a Wawa gas station located at 29th Street and 16th Avenue in west Hialeah. According to the police report, Medina was charged with threatening to stab two individuals, sparking fear among local residents.
The incident unfolded around 10:35 a.m. when law enforcement received an emergency call about a shirtless man wielding a knife and intimidating customers at the service station. Witnesses reported that the victims were refueling their vehicle when Medina aggressively approached them, asserting that he intended to stab them.
Out of fear, one of the victims sought refuge in their car while Medina moved to the sidewalk, continuing his threats, this time targeting pedestrians. In a chilling twist, the accused returned to the two initial victims, still brandishing the knife. However, one of them drew a firearm and aimed it at Medina, prompting him to flee the scene.
The suspect ran towards Okeechobee Road, entering the Medley area. Authorities later apprehended him and discovered the knife in one of his pockets.
A Troubling History
Local residents attest that this incident is not an isolated event. Armando Clavel, a neighbor, stated that Medina has a history of erratic and violent behavior. "You have to be careful with him because he's unstable and could act on his threats at any moment," Clavel told America Tevé.
"He's been arrested numerous times but keeps coming back. He always goes around saying things like women are the devil and that he's going to set the gas station on fire," Clavel added.
Other accounts describe Medina as physically strong and possessing an unpredictable and frightening personality. He has even shared fantastical tales, such as the alleged existence of a 3,000-ton snake living in a nearby lake or a crocodile that he claims is his friend.
Joel Medina faces two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. On Tuesday, he appeared in court, where he was given a $10,000 bond and ordered to stay away from the victims and the gas station where the incident took place. For now, he remains in county jail.
Understanding the Legal Implications of Aggravated Assault in Hialeah
What led to Joel Medina's arrest in Hialeah?
Joel Medina was arrested after threatening to stab two people at a gas station, causing panic among local residents.
What charges is Joel Medina facing?
He is facing two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
What is Medina's history in the community?
Residents report that Medina has a history of erratic and violent behavior, with numerous prior arrests.