Police detain driver accused of targeting LGBTQ+ runners in Florida
– 1 min read
A 43-year-old man has been arrested in Florida after allegedly trying to ram his SUV into members of a local LGBTQ+ running club during their evening meet-up.
Police say Ihab Mustafa El Mahmoud made multiple attempts to strike runners from the Night Runners WPB group on 24 November, accelerating towards them in a Ford Bronco before fleeing the scene. Witnesses reported that the suspect drove recklessly along pavements, through grass, and even up an embankment in what authorities described as a “deliberate act”.
According to investigators, the incident began after El Mahmoud became agitated over a perceived comment from one of the runners. Moments later, he allegedly reversed at speed towards the group, prompting members to scatter and take cover behind trees. Some witnesses estimated the vehicle was travelling at up to 80 mph during the attack.
“It was a traumatic experience,” said Rudolph Galindo, a founding member of the club and LGBTQ+ Liaison for the City of West Palm Beach. “I saw the car coming straight at me. I shouted for everyone to get out of the way.”
Police located El Mahmoud shortly afterwards in a nearby car park, where he was reportedly attempting to remove his number plate. He was taken into custody without further incident.
El Mahmoud faces two counts of aggravated assault with intent to commit a felony and one count of reckless driving. Authorities are also reviewing the case for possible hate crime charges under Florida law.
The Night Runners WPB group, which hosts twice-weekly runs, has vowed to continue its activities despite the attack. “We want to reassure our members that safety is our priority,” Galindo said.
