A firefighter from Florida has been taken into custody and charged with multiple offences after police say he violently assaulted a group of teenagers with a baseball bat, following a harmless doorbell prank at his home.
Chase and Violent Confrontation Caught on Camera
The incident unfolded on the evening of 23 November in Lighthouse Point. According to authorities, a group of adolescents rang the doorbell of 31-year-old Alex Michael Lutz, a member of Highland Beach Fire Rescue, and then ran away – a classic 'ding-dong-ditch' manoeuvre. Enraged, Lutz allegedly emerged from his property wielding a baseball bat and gave chase.
The teens were attempting to flee the scene in a golf cart. Police reports state that Lutz caught up with the vehicle and proceeded to strike both the cart and its young occupants with the bat. Surveillance footage obtained by local media reportedly captured the terrifying episode, with the teenagers "screaming in fear" as Lutz threatened them, saying "I will kill you."
Injuries, Arrest, and Professional Repercussions
Several of the youths sustained injuries from the attack, which included a dislocation, bruising, and swelling. Following the altercation, it was Lutz's own mother who contacted the police, informing the dispatcher that her husband and son had run after the children.
Alex Michael Lutz turned himself in at the Lighthouse Point Police Department on Monday, 2 December. He now faces serious criminal charges:
- Two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon
- Three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
- One count of criminal mischief
He was released from Broward County jail after posting bond on Tuesday morning. In response to the arrest, his employer, Highland Beach Fire Rescue, has placed him on administrative leave.
Department Distances Itself from Alleged Actions
Fire Chief Glenn Joseph issued a statement expressing surprise at the allegations and emphasising that the described behaviour was at odds with the department's values. "The behaviors described in the police reports do not reflect the values, professionalism, or expectations of the Highland Beach Fire Rescue Department or the Town," Joseph stated, confirming an active internal investigation is underway alongside the criminal case.
During initial police contact, Lutz's father reportedly highlighted his son's "good job" with the fire service and a desire not to jeopardise it, adding that Lutz was initially refusing to leave the home to speak with officers.
