A road rage incident that escalated into gunfire in a Publix parking lot has resulted in the arrest of a Kissimmee man, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.

On March 30, deputies responded to reports of a shooting outside the Publix located at 841 Cypress Parkway in the Poinciana area. Upon arrival, they learned that a dispute which began on the road had turned violent after one driver allegedly followed and fired multiple shots at another.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the confrontation began when the victim failed to notice a red light had turned green. The driver behind him, later identified as Jesus Perez Jr., began honking repeatedly. As the traffic light turned and both vehicles moved forward, Perez reportedly drove aggressively, attempting to pass the victim, who was unable to change lanes due to heavy traffic.

In an effort to de-escalate the situation, the victim turned into the nearby Publix parking lot. However, Perez allegedly followed him in, blocked his vehicle from exiting, and then exited his own vehicle with a firearm. Deputies say Perez then opened fire on the victim, who was still seated in his car. The victim returned fire before Perez fled the scene.

Detectives with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit quickly launched an investigation and, with assistance from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, located and arrested Perez on April 7.

Jesus Perez Jr. is facing multiple felony charges, including:

  • Attempted Murder (F.S.S. 782.04 (1A1))

  • Shooting into an Occupied Conveyance (F.S.S. 790.19)

  • Discharge of a Firearm in Public (F.S.S. 790.15(1))

He was booked into the Polk County Jail following his arrest.

The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office has not released the name of the victim, who did not report any serious injuries. Authorities continue to investigate the case and remind residents that acts of violence stemming from road rage can have life-altering consequences.

Residents with additional information about the incident are encouraged to contact the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office at (407) 348-2222.