Miami police arrest 98-year-old Little Havana man accused of stabbing caregiver during afternoon dispute

Incident reported at Little Havana home; victim taken to hospital

Miami police arrested a 98-year-old man after an afternoon stabbing that left a female caregiver injured at a residence in Little Havana, authorities said. The arrest followed a reported domestic dispute at a home near the 240 block of Southwest 18th Court.

Officers were dispatched shortly after 2 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026, after receiving a call about a stabbing. Police said officers provided first aid at the scene to a woman who was bleeding heavily before Miami Fire Rescue transported her to HCA Florida Mercy Hospital for treatment.

Police describe alleged attack and intervention by neighbor

Investigators said the victim told officers she had come to assist her mother-in-law when the suspect, identified as Juan Perez, allegedly struck her from behind. Police said the victim reported she was “poked” in the back and that Perez then swung a knife, cutting her left forearm.

Authorities said a struggle followed. During the confrontation, the victim was able to get control of the knife and call out for help. Police said a neighbor intervened by calling Perez by name, creating an opening for the victim to secure the knife until officers arrived.

• Location: Home near Southwest 18th Court in Little Havana
• Time: Shortly after 2 p.m., Thursday, February 12, 2026
• Victim: Female relative described as a caregiver and daughter-in-law
• Hospital: HCA Florida Mercy Hospital

Suspect’s account and evidence recovered outside the home

Police said Perez told detectives the incident began as an argument that escalated after the woman allegedly grabbed him. Authorities described the two as in-laws who have known each other for about 42 years. Investigators have not released a motive or details about what the argument involved.

During the follow-up investigation, police reported finding three kitchen knives in bushes outside the home. Officials have not publicly detailed how the knives were used or how they came to be located outside.

Perez is accused of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, according to jail records.

Charges, bond, and court-related restrictions

Jail records show Perez was booked on one count of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Authorities said he was held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, with bond set at $7,500. Police said a stay-away order was also issued, barring contact with the victim as the case proceeds.

The investigation remains centered on witness statements and physical evidence collected at the residence, with additional case details expected through court filings and future hearings.