A Biscayne Park man who stabbed a mail carrier during a street confrontation says he acted in self-defense and has been released pending further investigation. The case is now under review by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.

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BISCAYNE PARK, FL (3-minute read) — A man suspected of stabbing a U.S. Postal Service worker during a traffic-related confrontation in Biscayne Park was released Wednesday after asserting he acted in self-defense. The incident occurred Monday afternoon in this normally quiet neighborhood and has since drawn the attention of local authorities and the public alike.

According to police sources, the altercation began as a traffic dispute between the man, who was riding a scooter, and Eugene Mason, a well-known mail carrier operating his postal truck. The verbal exchange escalated quickly, resulting in a physical fight that ended with Mason being stabbed. He was hospitalized at Jackson Memorial but has since been released.

The suspect, whose name has not been made public, told Local 10 News, “I stand my ground, as Florida law provides.” His statement references Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, which allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, if they reasonably believe it’s necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm.

Florida Self-Defense Laws Come Into Play

This case now hinges on the interpretation of self-defense statutes and whether the suspect’s actions were legally justified. Under Florida law, the burden initially lies with prosecutors to disprove a self-defense claim when “Stand Your Ground” is invoked.

However, legal experts consistently advise individuals involved in such encounters to avoid speaking to the media or even to police without legal counsel. Public statements, especially those made emotionally or under stress, can be misinterpreted and used against someone in court.

It’s important to remember that even if you believe you acted within your rights, anything you say publicly can harm your defense later. This is why the safest approach after such an incident is to immediately retain an experienced attorney before discussing the matter with authorities or reporters.

Meanwhile, Mason has declined to comment through his union. Community members, who describe him as friendly and reliable, have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover his medical and recovery expenses.

The Biscayne Park Police Department has turned the case over to the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office for a final determination on potential charges.

Safety Tip: After a self-defense incident, always contact an attorney before speaking to police or reporters. Protecting your rights starts with knowing when to remain silent.