In Florida, one in five violent crimes with a knife leads to a life sentence. This harsh reality played out in a shocking stabbing in Ponte Vedra Beach.
On Nov. 22, a judge sentenced Spencer Ross Pearson to life in prison. He pleaded guilty for a June 3, 2023 attack outside Mr. Chubby’s Wings. He stabbed his ex-girlfriend, Madison Schemitz, her mother, Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge, and bystander Kennedy Armstrong.
Schemitz got about 15 stab wounds and is now paralyzed from the chest down.
In court, Pearson apologized and said he needed serious help. But the judge said the crimes were too serious for anything less than the maximum sentence. This case, known as spencer pearson ponte vedra, has caught the attention of many across the state.
As more details come out about spencer pearson florida, we see a quick sequence of events. There was a harrowing rescue and a firm ruling. For those following spencer ross pearson and the legal aftermath, this marks the start of a deeper dive into the events of that summer evening.
Case Overview: Life Sentence After Ponte Vedra Beach Stabbing
The case of spencer pearson ponte vedra ended with a life sentence. This decision caught the attention of many in Northeast Florida. People wanted to know the latest ponte vedra stabbing update based on court records and testimony.
Police said the violence was the result of months of tension. It left three people seriously hurt. The accused, spencer ross pearson florida, was charged with several felonies after the stabbing in ponte vedra beach near a popular restaurant.
Sentencing date and charges
The sentencing happened on November 22. It followed a guilty plea in July. The court accepted pleas for two counts of attempted first-degree murder and one count of aggravated battery.
This ruling closed the state’s case against spencer pearson ponte vedra. It gave a clear ponte vedra stabbing update to those following the case.
Attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery details
Prosecutors said the attack caused severe harm and put many lives at risk. The charges were backed by eyewitnesses and medical evidence.
After the attack, spencer ross pearson florida tried to harm himself. This, along with victim impact, showed the seriousness of the stabbing in ponte vedra beach.
Location: Mr. Chubby’s Wings in Ponte Vedra Beach
The incident happened outside Mr. Chubby’s Wings in Ponte Vedra Beach on June 3, 2023. The restaurant is in a busy area where families often meet on weekends.
Witnesses described the chaos in the parking lot as they called 911. As the case progressed, each filing added to the ponte vedra stabbing update related to spencer pearson ponte vedra.
| Key Element | Specifics | Relevance to Case |
|---|---|---|
| Sentencing Date | November 22 | Marks final judgment and closure for the criminal phase |
| Primary Charges | 2x Attempted First-Degree Murder (with a weapon) | Reflects intent and lethal risk in the attack |
| Additional Charge | Aggravated Battery causing serious bodily injury (with a weapon) | Captures lasting injuries to a victim |
| Defendant | spencer ross pearson florida | Identifies the person at the center of the prosecution |
| Location | Outside Mr. Chubby’s Wings, Ponte Vedra Beach | Establishes venue and public setting of the event |
| Public Interest | ponte vedra stabbing update | Tracks developments for residents and victims’ supporters |
| Context | stabbing in ponte vedra beach | Summarizes the nature of the incident |
Timeline of the June 3, 2023 Attack
Witnesses and reports tell us what happened outside Mr. Chubby’s Wings in Ponte Vedra Beach. Footage from cameras showed the events leading up to the stabbing. It happened in the early evening, with people eating and cars passing by.
Events outside the restaurant moments before the stabbing
Spencer Ross Pearson met Madison Schemitz outside the restaurant. Words were exchanged, and the tension grew. People stepped back as the situation became more intense.
There was a brief pause before the stabbing happened. This shows how quickly things can change in public places.
Sequence of the assault and immediate aftermath
Deputies say Pearson attacked Schemitz from behind. He stabbed her 15 to 17 times. When her mom, Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge, tried to protect her, she was stabbed too.
Kennedy Armstrong, a bystander, tried to stop Pearson. She got very hurt in the process. The scene was chaotic, with people shouting for help.
Pearson tried to cut his own throat, records show. People applied pressure to wounds and tried to hold him. The area was tense, with everyone watching.
Law enforcement response and arrest
Deputies and first responders arrived quickly. They treated the injured and arrested Pearson. He was taken to the hospital before being booked for the stabbing.
Body camera and surveillance footage helped tell the story. The fast response and help from bystanders were key to solving the case.
Victims Identified: Madison Schemitz, Jacki Roge, and Kennedy Armstrong
The June 3 scene in Ponte Vedra Beach was marked by tragedy. Teen athlete Madison Schemitz, her mother Jacki Roge, and bystander Kennedy Armstrong were caught in a violent moment. Their bravery and injuries led to a swift response.
Injuries suffered and initial treatment
Madison Schemitz, 17, was stabbed 15–17 times and suffered spinal trauma. This left her paralyzed from the chest down. First responders quickly took her to emergency surgery and intensive care.
Her mother, Jacki Roge, was also hurt while trying to protect Madison. She received urgent care and ongoing treatment.
Doctors worked to save her life, focusing on blood loss and airway support. Nurses managed her wounds and coordinated imaging and treatment.
Heroic intervention by a bystander
Kennedy Armstrong intervened during the attack, helping to restrain the assailant until police arrived. He suffered severe hand injuries in the process. His actions gave medics precious time to help Madison and Jacki.
His bravery created a safe space for victims and medical staff.
Recognition and awards for bravery
Months later, Jacki Roge and Kennedy Armstrong were awarded the Carnegie Medal for heroism. Their actions during the stabbing were recognized, showing their bravery and risk.
Their courage was celebrated, showing the community’s gratitude for their bravery.
Stalking Allegations Leading Up to the Attack
In the months before the June 2023 violence, friends and family noticed a change. The tone of contact became tense and persistent. This pattern is now highlighted in every update on the ponte vedra stabbing.
Reports of harassment and threats after the breakup
After the relationship ended, relatives reported repeated calls and sudden appearances. They also mentioned late-night messages. These actions made daily routines feel unsafe.
Witnesses described tense exchanges that prompted requests for distance. They shared warnings with peers and adults when boundaries were crossed. This context is now reflected in each ponte vedra stabbing update.
Digital harassment and warnings before the incident
Online exchanges added pressure. Screenshots and saved chats showed patterns of posts and direct messages aimed at contact. For madison schemitz ponte vedra, these records highlighted the risk tied to spencer pearson.
Family members said they flagged aggressive notes and abrupt tone shifts before the attack. These digital warnings are part of the public record on the ponte vedra stabbing. They continue to inform each ponte vedra stabbing update.
| Allegation Category | Typical Signs Reported | Where It Occurred | Relevance to Case Narrative |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Person Harassment | Unwanted approaches, repeated encounters | Public places near home and school areas | Context for risk escalation tied to spencer pearson |
| Digital Harassment | Frequent messages, tone shifts, late-night contact | Text, social media DMs, and apps | Documentation cited in ponte vedra stabbing update |
| Threat-Adjacent Warnings | Alarming phrases, implied intimidation | Saved screenshots and chat logs | Supports timeline involving madison schemitz ponte vedra |
| Pattern Over Time | Persistence after breakup, boundary violations | Offline and online settings | Provides continuity to ponte vedra stabbing accounts |
Inside the Sentencing Hearing
The Nov. 22 hearing was packed, focusing on the ponte vedra beach stabbing. Spencer Pearson spoke softly, asking to be heard. He took responsibility for the harm caused by the pv stabbing.
“On this day, I hurt three innocent people,” he said, his voice shaking. He repeated his remorse. Families listened closely to every word from spencer pearson florida.
Madison Schemitz and her mother, Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge, were present. Their attorneys talked about the long journey after the stabbing. When the sentence was read, Schemitz’s family breathed a sigh of relief. The defense side for spencer pearson ponte vedra was filled with sobs.
The court also mentioned a delay due to new CTE information. This pause led to a hearing that considered science, trauma, and accountability. The judge gave both sides time to speak before making a decision in the pv stabbing case.
| Key Moment | Who Spoke | Substance | Relevance to Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apology | Spencer Pearson | Accepted blame and expressed remorse for harming three people | Direct acknowledgment of responsibility in the ponte vedra beach stabbing |
| Victim Presence | Madison Schemitz and Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge | Observed quietly, showed relief after sentencing | Affirmed impact on survivors following the pv stabbing |
| Family Reaction | Pearson’s relatives | Cried out as the life term was announced | Humanized the consequences for spencer pearson florida and his family |
| CTE Consideration | Defense team | Referenced prior delay to review new information | Contextual factor noted before judgment in spencer pearson ponte vedra case |
Judge’s Rationale for Imposing the Maximum Sentence
The court focused on harm and accountability in the ponte vedra stabbing case. The judge said justice must show the act’s gravity and its lasting effects on victims. For more background, check out this ponte vedra stabbing update for defense claims and medical evaluations.
Balancing mitigating factors against impact on victims
The court looked at mental health issues like depression and autism. They also considered head trauma from football. But the severe injuries and lasting paralysis from the stabbing were key.
In the end, the judge decided the offense’s seriousness outweighed any mitigating factors. The judge said the harm to victims and the community was too great to ignore.
Key quotes from the bench
There are just certain crimes committed that merit the maximum possible sentence and this court finds one of them. You are sentenced to serve the remainder of your life in prison.
I was given my own life sentence by the defendant… [he should receive] the same life sentence he gave me.
These words made the ponte vedra stabbing update clear. They linked the punishment to the lasting impact on victims.
Emotional reactions from both families
When the sentence was announced, Pearson’s family showed deep sadness. They hugged and cried. The victims’ family, on the other hand, looked relieved.
The courtroom’s mood showed the impact of the stabbing. Both sides faced a future marked by loss, accountability, and a life term.
| Sentencing Factor | Court’s Consideration | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Mitigating claims (mental health, head trauma) | Reviewed clinical reports and expert opinions; evaluated relevance to intent and risk | Insufficient to reduce sentence for spencer ross pearson |
| Severity of harm to victims | Weighed lasting paralysis, psychological trauma, and community safety concerns | Determined maximum penalty appropriate in the ponte vedra stabbing |
| Deterrence and accountability | Emphasized public protection and proportional response to violent conduct | Life sentence affirmed, aligning with ponte vedra stabbing update |
| Victim statements | Considered direct appeals linking harm to requested sentence | Supported conclusion that punishment should match impact |
Victim Impact Statements and Recovery Journey
The courtroom fell silent as survivors of the ponte vedra beach stabbing shared their stories. They spoke of pain, grit, and finding a way forward. Their words highlighted the power of community and daily determination.
Madison Schemitz’s statement on living with paralysis
In her statement, madison schemitz talked about the attack’s immediate aftermath. She couldn’t feel her legs and breathing was hard. Yet, she focused on hope and healing, aiming to uplift others.
Today, madison schmitz ponte vedra inspires with her courage. She shows that paralysis doesn’t silence her or limit her future. Instead, it motivates her to support others.
Support from her mother, Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge
Her mother, jackie roge—Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge—was a constant presence. She talked about the betrayal and the weight of the situation. She also promised to keep fighting for safety and her daughter’s future.
This bond helped shape their recovery plan. It included regular appointments, therapy goals, and hospital visits. Love, structure, and honesty guided their daily progress.
Progress: rehabilitation, graduation milestone, and college
After the ponte vedra beach stabbing, madison schemitz started rehab quickly. Therapists worked on her breathing, core strength, and mobility. Every small gain was a victory.
Within a year, madison schemitz graduated from high school. Now, she’s a college freshman, balancing classes, therapy, and campus life. Her journey shows the strength of perseverance.
Defense Arguments: Mental Health and CTE Considerations
The defense painted a picture of mental health issues and brain trauma. They said tackle football and social struggles increased risk. They looked at spencer ross pearson florida’s school years, family, and medical history to understand his behavior.
Claims of depression, social anxiety, and autism
Lawyers pointed to depression, social anxiety, and autism as reasons for leniency. They talked about how isolation and stress built up over time. They also mentioned how soencer pearson tried to get help but found it hard to keep up with treatment.
They noted missed classes, sleep issues, and a lack of emotion. People who knew him said he pulled back in big crowds and got anxious in fights. They believed these traits affected his judgment when under pressure.
CTE background, repetitive head impacts, and behavior
The defense brought up chronic traumatic encephalopathy as a possible factor. They talked about the head hits from playing tackle football from ages 6 to 18. Dr. Justin D’Arienzo explained how this brain disease can change how someone acts and makes decisions.
They pointed to a 2023 JAMA Neurology study on 152 young athletes who died. The study found 41% had CTE, and most died from suicide. They said this study supports the idea that mood swings, irritability, and quick decisions could be linked to CTE.
Court delay for testing and scientific context
The court took a break to look at new brain-scanning methods for living people. This delay until November 22 was to see if these methods could show signs of CTE. Experts said science is always changing and results need careful thought.
Lawyers said any findings would help in understanding risk and planning for treatment. They emphasized that looking at pearson spender from both medical and legal angles is important.
Background on Spencer Ross Pearson
At 18, the defendant apologized and took responsibility for his actions. His background showed years of sports and school changes. He tried therapy and moved schools, which made it hard to keep treatment going.
Documents mentioned spencer pearson parents’ efforts to support him. The defense said family support was there but was hard to keep up with as symptoms got worse. They argued that understanding his situation, not making excuses, was key to their plea.
Civil Litigation: Lawsuit Against Pearson, His Parents, and Restaurant
Madison Schemitz and her mom, Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge, started a civil case related to the stabbing in Ponte Vedra. They named Spencer Pearson, his parents, and Mr. Chubby’s Wings in Ponte Vedra Beach.
They shared the details and timeline in a public record. You can read it through this detailed report. The lawsuit is alongside the criminal case and focuses on duties, warnings, and foreseeability linked to the stabbing in Ponte Vedra.
Negligence claims involving security at the venue
The complaint says Mr. Chubby’s Wings didn’t make the place safe as tensions grew before the stabbing in Ponte Vedra. It claims staff should have seen the danger signs and acted fast.
The plaintiffs believe better monitoring or quick action could have prevented the stabbing. They point out the venue’s duty to keep everyone safe, considering the crowd and access points.
Allegations about gifting a knife despite mental health concerns
The suit also targets Spencer Pearson’s parents for negligence. It claims they gave him a big knife knowing he had mental health issues.
They say this decision made the stabbing more likely. They mention warnings before the stabbing, saying the knife and other tools were used in the assault.
Potential implications for businesses and guardians
The lawsuit has big implications for businesses and guardians. Venues might face new scrutiny on their security and staff training. Families will think twice about weapons and supervision when risks are known.
As the civil case goes on with the criminal trial, it shows how duty, notice, and access matter. These themes will be key in testing liability under Florida law.
| Party | Role in Civil Case | Key Allegation | Relevant Duty Highlighted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madison Schemitz | Plaintiff | Seeks damages linked to stabbing in ponte vedra | Prove breach and causation under negligence |
| Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge | Plaintiff | Claims harm and prior warnings | Establish foreseeability and notice |
| Spencer Pearson | Defendant | Central actor in stabbing ponte vedra | Personal liability for wrongful acts |
| Spencer Pearson Parents | Defendants | Alleged gifting and allowing possession of a knife | Guardian responsibility amid known risks |
| Mr. Chubby’s Wings | Defendant | Alleged inadequate security measures | Premises safety and reasonable care |
Community Response and Ongoing Support
After the pvb stabbing, neighbors, schools, and small businesses came together. They organized weekend dine-outs and set up cash jars to help with medical costs. Local restaurants held benefit nights and donated a part of their sales. Youth teams also got involved with car washes and silent auctions.
Public recognition of courage mattered. The Carnegie Medal was given to Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge and Kennedy Armstrong. This honor showed how quick action saved lives during the madison schemitz stabbing. It became a symbol at vigils and school assemblies, where students talked about looking out for each other.
Action News Jax and News4JAX kept everyone updated from the start. Their reports covered safety planning, bystander training, and mental health resources. This helped volunteers find ways to help that were vetted.
As Madison Schemitz continues her rehabilitation, the community offers ongoing support. They provide meals, rides, and campus support as she advances her education. Donors stay updated on the case and the civil suit’s progress. They tie each update to calls for prevention and long-term care. The goal is to offer steady, human support that lasts beyond the headlines.
Conclusion
Spencer Ross Pearson’s life sentence brings closure to the case. But, it doesn’t erase the lasting effects of the Ponte Vedra Beach stabbing. The court considered Pearson’s mental health but focused on the harm he caused.
Madison Schemitz and her family have called for accountability. They want justice for what happened. As the case fades, they keep the story alive with determination.
Madison Schemitz has shown great resilience. She has overcome challenges and achieved milestones. Her mother, Jaclyn “Jacki” Roge, and friend Kennedy Armstrong support her recovery and talk about safety.
They also fight for justice in civil court against Pearson and others. This fight is about holding people responsible for their actions.
The case has sparked important discussions. It talks about stalking, digital harassment, and keeping places safe. It also raises questions about mental health and possible brain damage from sports.
The story of Spencer Pearson is not just about punishment. It’s about learning, preventing such incidents, and caring for survivors.
The Ponte Vedra Beach stabbing is a harsh reminder of escalating warning signs. The community has come together, resources have increased, and advocacy has grown. Madison Schemitz and her supporters are focused on healing, raising awareness, and preventing such tragedies in the future.
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