A Florida woman, aged 42, is facing legal repercussions after allegedly accelerating her vehicle towards a high school staff member, causing him to leap into nearby shrubbery to avoid being hit. The incident occurred during the morning drop-off period last week. The woman, identified as Tarajayne Samuels-Catalan, is alleged to have attempted to strike an employee at Port Charlotte High School on November 2.
According to authorities, after the alleged incident, Samuels-Catalan attempted to leave the school premises via the same route she had entered. A staff member halted her, explaining that she could not exit that way due to incoming buses offloading students. This information reportedly agitated Samuels-Catalan, who then reversed her vehicle and turned it around, leading the staff member to believe she was complying with his instructions.
However, as a bus began to enter the premises, it was forced to wait for Samuels-Catalan’s vehicle to move out of the way. Once the bus had passed, Samuels-Catalan allegedly turned her vehicle towards the staff member and accelerated towards him at a high speed, forcing him to dive into the bushes to avoid being hit.
The staff member reported the incident, including the suspect’s license plate number, to the school’s deputy, prompting an investigation. Authorities have stated that both a witness and security footage have corroborated the staff member’s account of the incident.
When questioned by deputies, Samuels-Catalan reportedly stated that she prefers to exit the school grounds via the entrance to avoid speed bumps that could potentially damage her vehicle. She denied any intention of hitting the staff member with her car.
Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell commented on the incident, stating, “The pick-up and drop-off lines at the schools can be frustrating at times, but we will not compromise on ensuring the safety of the students and staff.” He expressed relief that the staff member was unharmed and expressed hope that Samuels-Catalan would reconsider the example she was setting for her child.
Samuels-Catalan has been charged with aggravated assault on a public or private education employee and is currently being held at the Charlotte County Jail without bond.