– Update –
An Auburndale man has been charged with Attempted 2nd Degree Murder after a stabbing occurred in Winter Haven.
On April 16, 2025 at approximately 8:30 p.m., Winter Haven Police responded to a call of a stabbing that occurred at a residence on Ave. Q NW in WinterHaven. Due to the injuries, the female victim was airlifted to Lakeland Regional Health where she remains in critical but stable condition.
The victim advised officers that after a trip to the store, as she returned to the residence, 54 year-old Michael Laverro Patterson (DOB 12-15-70, 1203 PriceAve., Auburndale, FL) appeared from behind a building asking, “Why can’t we talk, why did you stop talking to me?” The victim could tell Patterson was agitated and attempted to calm him down, requesting that he allow her to place her items into the residence.
As the victim attempted to put the key into the lock, Patterson stated, “I really want to hurt you bitch, I really want to hurt you, I want to kill you.” The victim then felt punches on the left side of the back of her neck and shoulder and immediately felt blood. As she screamed for help, Patterson walked away from the area.
The victim knew Patterson and had been previously talking with him over the telephone until he became verbally abusive, so she stopped all communication.
After ending communication, Patterson would follow her to her residence whereultimately she had him trespassed in January 2025. He had not shown back up atthe residence until this incident, however he had been to her place of employment.
Officers searched the area and located Patterson at the top of the bridge onthe Chain of Lakes Trail near Martin Luther King Blvd. NW and Unity Way.
Patterson was detained, however refused to speak with officers.Patterson was taken into custody and booked into the Polk County Jail for onecount of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder (F1) and one count of Trespass afterWarning (M2).
– Initial Report –
Winter Haven, FL — Winter Haven Police responded to a stabbing incident last night near Avenue Q NW, where a medical helicopter was dispatched to assist.
According to the Winter Haven Police Department, officers have made an arrest in connection with the incident. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is receiving medical attention. Police confirmed the suspect is known to the victim, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available. Nothing further at this time.
