A family argument over a video game console turned violent in South Florida after a Florida man allegedly stabbed his 12-year-old cousin during a heated dispute inside a Sunrise apartment, according to police.
Authorities say 28-year-old Andrew Zagazeta, of Weston, was arrested after allegedly attacking the child with a kitchen knife following an argument over the use of a gaming console. The shocking incident unfolded on Vista Isles Drive in Sunrise, leaving the young victim hospitalized with a non-life-threatening injury.
According to investigators, the confrontation began when the 12-year-old boy questioned Zagazeta about using his gaming console without permission. What initially appeared to be a typical family disagreement quickly escalated into a dangerous altercation.
Police say the victim’s great-grandmother attempted to intervene after the argument became increasingly heated, separating the two relatives in an effort to calm the situation. However, authorities allege the dispute didn’t end there.
Investigators say Zagazeta later retrieved a kitchen knife that had reportedly been hidden behind a television inside the apartment. As the child walked toward his gaming console, police allege Zagazeta stabbed him once in the right hip.
Emergency responders were called to the residence shortly after the incident. The injured 12-year-old was transported to Broward Health Medical Center, where doctors treated him for what authorities described as a non-life-threatening stab wound. Officials have not released additional details regarding the child’s current condition.
Sunrise Police quickly launched an investigation into the incident. Detectives interviewed family members and collected evidence from inside the apartment before placing Zagazeta under arrest.
The suspect was booked into the Broward County Main Jail on a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Court records indicate his bond was set at $20,000.
While the physical injury was not considered life-threatening, the incident has sparked widespread reaction online due to the disturbing nature of the alleged attack. Many social media users expressed disbelief that an argument over a gaming console could allegedly escalate into a stabbing involving a child.
Family disputes turning violent continue to be a concern for law enforcement agencies across the country. Experts often warn that arguments inside the home can rapidly intensify when emotions take over, especially when weapons become accessible. Authorities have not indicated whether there were any prior incidents involving the suspect and the victim.
Police have not released additional information regarding what led up to the argument beyond the disagreement over the gaming console. Investigators also have not disclosed whether any other children witnessed the incident or if additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
The case now moves through the Florida court system, where prosecutors will determine how they intend to proceed. As with all criminal cases, the allegations against Zagazeta remain accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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