Florida Man Accused of Attacking Elderly Couple and Shooting Police Officer
ORMOND BEACH, FLORIDA — September 22, 2026

A 40-year-old Florida man is facing multiple charges after police said he severely assaulted an elderly couple before allegedly taking a police officer’s firearm and shooting the officer during a struggle at a hospital.

The suspect, Michael Hightower, was arrested following the incidents in Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach, authorities said.

Elderly Couple Found Critically Injured
Police said a 79-year-old man and his 74-year-old wife were checking a property at Daytona College on South Nova Road on Sunday evening after receiving a burglary alarm.

The couple reportedly found signs of trespassing and contacted authorities.

According to investigators, Hightower then allegedly drove into the couple’s vehicle and attacked both of them before fleeing on foot. Officers arrived and found the two victims seriously injured. They were taken to hospital in critical condition.

Police said Hightower was located about an hour later and taken into custody.

Suspect Allegedly Takes Officer’s Gun
After his arrest, Hightower was transported to AdventHealth Daytona Beach for medical evaluation.

At about 3:20 a.m. Monday, police said he became involved in a physical struggle with Ormond Beach Police Officer Austin Long, who was assigned to guard him.

Investigators allege that Hightower gained control of Long’s firearm during the struggle and fired it, striking the officer in the leg.

Long was treated for his injuries and is expected to make a full recovery, according to police.

Attempted Murder Charges Filed
Hightower has been charged with two counts of attempted felony murder in connection with the attack on the elderly couple and aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer.

Police said additional charges could follow as the investigation continues.

Authorities have not indicated that the couple and the officer knew Hightower before the incidents.

Investigation Continues
Investigators are continuing to reconstruct the sequence of events, including the circumstances surrounding the confrontation at the hospital.

Police said the two elderly victims remained hospitalized following the attack. Officer Long, a K-9 officer who has served with the Ormond Beach Police Department for eight years, is expected to recover.

The allegations against Hightower have not been proven in court, and he is presumed innocent unless found guilty.

Sources
Ormond Beach Observer — Ormond Beach couple assaulted, officer shot
WFTV — Daytona Beach man faces attempted murder charges
Volusia Sheriff’s Office