A New Jersey man faces an attempted murder charge after allegedly flying to Florida and attacking a fellow gamer with a hammer over an online dispute, authorities said.
The two had never met in-person before the suspect showed up at the victim’s home in Fernandina Beach over the weekend “apparently to confront the victim,” Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper said during a press briefing on Monday announcing charges in the case.
The incident is believed to have originated from an “online altercation,” Leeper said, calling the case “a weird one.”
Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper holds a photo during a press briefing of a hammer he says was used in an assault, June 24, 2024.
WJXX
The suspect, Edward Kang, 20, allegedly gained entry into the victim’s home through an unlocked door and — wearing all-black clothes, gloves and a mask — attacked him with a hammer when the victim got up from gaming to use the bathroom late Saturday or early Sunday, according to Leeper.
The victim, who is believed to be around the same age as Kang, was able to wrestle his assailant to the ground, Leeper said. He and his stepfather, who was woken up by screams for help, were able to disarm the suspect and restrain him until deputies arrived, Leeper said.
“Upon arrival, they discovered a significant amount of blood in the entryway of the home and the victim’s bedroom,” Leeper said.
The victim sustained “severe” head wounds during the assault, the sheriff said. The victim has since been released from a hospital, he said.
Kang was booked into the Nassau County Jail on Sunday and charged with attempted second-degree murder and armed burglary. It is unclear if he has an attorney.
The booking photo for Edward Kang.
Nassau County Sheriff’s Office
Leeper said the investigation is ongoing and charges may be upgraded.
When asked about a motive in the assault, Kang allegedly told deputies that the victim is a “bad person online,” Leeper said. He also allegedly asked how much jail time you receive for breaking and entering and assault, according to Leeper.
“I would say, Mr. Kang, it will be a long time before you play video games,” Leeper said.
The victim and suspect allegedly knew each other from the online video game ArcheAge, according to Leeper. The Korean massively multiplayer online role-playing game will no longer be accessible in the United States as of Thursday, its publisher announced in April, citing the “declining number of active players.”
Kang reportedly told family he was going to meet a friend he met years ago through an online video game, Leeper said. He flew from Newark, New Jersey, to Jacksonville, Florida, and arrived at a hotel near the victim’s home early Friday morning, according to Leeper. He allegedly purchased a hammer and flashlight at a hardware store upon landing in Florida, with receipts found in his hotel room, Leeper said.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential real-world consequences of online interaction,” Leeper said. “We urge the public to exercise caution, report any suspicious online behavior to the authorities and always ensure that their homes are securely locked.”
In a bizarre and alarming turn of events, a sheriff in Florida has reported an alleged incident involving a New Jersey man flying to the Sunshine State with the intention of attacking a fellow gamer. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the gaming community, highlights the potential dangers of online interactions and the importance of taking threats seriously.
According to the sheriff’s report, the New Jersey man had been engaged in an online dispute with the victim, a fellow gamer who resides in Florida. The dispute reportedly escalated to the point where the New Jersey man made threats of physical violence against the victim. Concerned for his safety, the victim contacted local law enforcement, who were able to track down the suspect before any harm was done.
The sheriff’s report did not specify the nature of the dispute between the two individuals, but it serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of online conflicts. In recent years, there have been numerous incidents of online disputes spilling over into real-world violence, with tragic results. It is essential for individuals to exercise caution and restraint when engaging in online interactions, and to seek help if they feel threatened or unsafe.
The incident also underscores the importance of taking threats seriously and reporting them to the appropriate authorities. In this case, the victim’s quick thinking and willingness to seek help likely prevented a potentially dangerous situation from escalating further. It is crucial for individuals to trust their instincts and not dismiss threats or abusive behavior as mere words.
As the gaming community continues to grow and evolve, it is important for players to prioritize safety and respect in their interactions with others. Online gaming can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it also comes with risks. By being vigilant and proactive in addressing threats and conflicts, players can help create a safer and more welcoming environment for all.
In conclusion, the alleged incident of a New Jersey man flying to Florida to attack a fellow gamer serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers of online interactions. It is essential for individuals to take threats seriously, seek help when needed, and prioritize safety and respect in their interactions with others. By working together to address these issues, we can help ensure that online gaming remains a positive and enjoyable experience for all.
