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Jun 24, 2023

Man arrested after stabbing attack and fleeing from police in St. Petersburg

A violent altercation occurred on the front porch of a residence involving two individuals with a history of animosity. The altercation occurred at a home in St. Petersburg at approximately 9:24 p.m.

A violent altercation occurred on the front porch of a residence involving two individuals with a history of animosity. The altercation occurred at a home in St. Petersburg at approximately 9:24 p.m. on Friday, August 11, 2023.

The victim was standing on the front porch when 33-year-old Tor Nelson drove in front of his home. Tensions immediately escalated as the two exchanged brief words before the victim turned to walk into the house.

However, the situation turned violent when, out of the corner of his eye, the victim noticed the outline of fingers and heard Nelson whispering derogatory slurs. Nelson allegedly uttered racial slurs multiple times before suddenly attacking the victim. The victim reported multiple strikes to the top of his head and the back of his neck.

Emergency services were called to the scene, and the victim was rushed to a nearby hospital. Medical staff located a small piece of a knife tip embedded in the victim’s skull.

Authorities revealed that the victim and Tor had a history of conflicts, particularly centered around a mutual female acquaintance.

During the initial investigation, the defendant made spontaneous and incriminating statements, reportedly saying, “I got mine” and “revenge is revenge.” These statements further suggest a premeditated motive behind the attack.

Shortly after the stabbing, an officer from the St. Petersburg Police Department noticed a black convertible Ford Mustang fitting the description of Tor’s vehicle. The officer got behind the vehicle on I-275 and confirmed the license plate. A traffic stop was attempted, but Tor fled from the officer. Tor crashed into the center median and guardrail a short distance later.

Tor jumped the fence on the property of the Allstate Center located at 3200 34th Street S and was apprehended with the assistance of a K-9. He was transported to a local hospital for his injuries.

Compelling evidence was discovered during the subsequent investigation. A knife matching the description of the weapon used in the attack was recovered from Tor’s vehicle, reinforcing the suspicion that he had orchestrated the violent confrontation.

Tor is facing charges of attempted first-degree murder, fleeing and eluding a police officer, reckless driving, burglary, and resisting an officer without violence.

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