Orlando, FL – A heated dispute over pet waste at a West Orlando apartment complex escalated dramatically this week when a 51-year-old man allegedly fired a gun at his neighbor during a confrontation. The incident has sparked concern among residents and raised questions about the use of Florida’s controversial “stand your ground” law.
Gunfire at Debra Metrowest Apartments
The shooting occurred Tuesday night at the Debra Metrowest Apartments near Florida’s Turnpike and South Kirkman Road. Police responded shortly after 10 p.m. following reports of gunfire. According to multiple witnesses, the sound startled residents, with some initially unsure whether it was a gunshot.
“I looked at him and was like, is that a gunshot?” said Stephanie Angelone, who was having dinner with her boyfriend, Alexander Pagan, when they heard the loud bang.
Argument Over Pet Waste Escalates
According to the Orlando Police Department, the incident started when the victim was walking his dog on the property. The suspect, Cristiano Lamanna, reportedly shouted from his balcony, demanding that the neighbor clean up after the dog. The argument quickly intensified.
Police say Lamanna then left his apartment with a pistol in hand and confronted the man inside a stairwell. During the confrontation, the victim reportedly asked, “Are you going to shoot me?” — moments before Lamanna allegedly pointed the gun at his face and fired, narrowly missing and striking close to the man’s ear.
Immediate Arrest and Charges
As per ClickOrlando, Responding officers quickly apprehended Lamanna outside the building. He was taken into custody and later booked into the Orange County Jail on several charges, including:
- Aggravated assault with a firearm
- Discharging a weapon on residential property
Jail records confirm that Lamanna is being held on a $5,100 bond.
Defense Points to ‘Stand Your Ground’
In court on Wednesday, Lamanna’s attorney indicated they plan to invoke Florida’s “stand your ground” defense. The attorney argued that Lamanna remained on his own property during the incident, stating:
“This was an incident where my client was on his own property, on the second floor of his apartment. A stand your ground motion will be forthcoming.”
The defense also emphasized that Lamanna has no prior criminal history.
Community Reaction
Neighbors were stunned by the violent turn of events over something they described as trivial. Some had just recently moved into the apartment complex and said the shooting was unexpected.
“It’s really crazy, especially for something that is so minuscule,” Angelone said. “I think it’s a little ridiculous that something that minor can cause an outburst like that. It’s very Florida.”
Police Statement
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara commented during a news conference:
“All acts of violence in our community are troubling, but especially random acts when someone is sitting in the comfort of their home. And particularly when they affect the elderly or the youth in our community, they are that much more egregious and offensive to everyone.”
Key Takeaways
- Cristiano Lamanna, 51, is accused of firing a gun at a neighbor during a dispute over dog waste.
- The altercation happened in a stairwell, and the bullet narrowly missed the victim.
- Florida’s “stand your ground” law may play a role in the defense.
- Community members are disturbed by the escalation of violence over a seemingly minor issue.
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