SANTA ROSA COUNTY

SHERIFF'S OFFICE

Sheriff Wendell Hall

Deputies Make an Arrest in Multiple Stabbing in Navarre

Investigators have arrested one individual that is believed to be responsible for the double stabbing that occurred on Eagle Nest Drive . A warrant was issued this morning for the arrest of Phillip Rousell (37 years old) for two counts of aggravated battery. The warrant was issued after investigators were able to track down leads concerning a vehicle that was seen leaving the area of the stabbing. The investigation revealed that Phillip Rousell was an occupant of that vehicle and had been present at the fight that led to the stabbing. Both victims' of the stabbings were able to positively identify Phillip Rousell as the individual that was responsible for the stabbings. Investigators are continuing their investigation into the fight and how the events unfolded. Further arrests are expected in the incident. The investigation is ongoing. Rousell was arrested this afternoon in Gulf Breeze and is being held at the Santa Rosa County Jail with no bond. A photograph is attached to this email.

SUSPECT:

Phillip Robert Rousell, W/M, 39 years old

2700 Block of Gulf Breeze Parkway

*** ORINGINAL RELEASE ***

Investigators are currently on the scene of a multiple stabbing in Navarre , Florida . On 02/25/2008 at approximately 2110 hours, deputies were dispatched to a trailer park located at 9212 Eagle Nest Drive in Navarre . The initial complainant stated that a gunshot was heard from a nearby trailer on Eagle Nest Drive . Deputies responded and spoke to the complainant and others present at the scene. Nothing was substantiated at that time and there were no allegations of any type of violence occurring. Approximately one half hour later, numerous 911 calls were placed to the Sheriff's Office in reference to a large fight that was occurring at the same location on Eagle Nest Drive . When deputies arrived at the scene, they found that there were numerous victims suffering from a wide range of injuries; the most serious being major stab wounds. Four victims were transported to local hospitals. Two of the victims that were transported were adult male subjects suffering from serious stab wounds to the chest and abdomen. The two other victims that were transported were adult females that had serious facial injuries. Other subjects were still present at the scene and refused medical treatment for less serious injuries. None of the subjects are being identified at this time. Deputies that arrived located numerous items lying around the scene that had been used as weapons, to include axe handles, chains, and car jacks. Investigators are currently conducting numerous interviews with victims and other subjects that were present in order to determine what transpired. No suspects have been identified or arrested at the time of this press release. More information will be released as it becomes available.

Press Release By:

Sgt. Scott Haines

Media Relations Unit

(850) 981-2136 or shaines@srso.net