On March 17, 2026, at approximately 9:30 a.m., officers responded to 4431 W. New Haven Avenue (America’s Best Value Inn) following a report of shots fired from a room at the business.
Upon arrival, officers determined that an adult female, identified as Rene Florence, was inside the room with her juvenile daughter and appeared to be experiencing a mental health crisis, potentially exacerbated by narcotics use. During the incident, Florence discharged a firearm twice, firing out of the motel room windows and shattering the glass.
The juvenile was present inside the room at the time of the incident. At no point did Florence reportedly point the firearm at the juvenile. However, Florence refused to allow her daughter to leave the room and, at times, physically restrained her despite officers’ attempts to safely resolve the situation.
Due to the presence of a firearm and the escalating circumstances, the West Melbourne Police Department SWAT Team responded, along with a Crisis Negotiation Team from the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. Barricades had been placed inside the door, making it difficult for officers to observe activity within the room.
Officers ultimately made entry into the room and observed Florence striking the juvenile. Officers intervened and utilized less-lethal munitions to subdue Florence and prevent further harm. She was taken into custody without further incident.
During a search incident to arrest, officers located a white powdery substance on Florence’s person, which field-tested positive for methamphetamine.
The juvenile was safely removed from the scene and is receiving appropriate care.
Florence is facing multiple charges related to the incident, including False imprisonment, Child Abuse, Domestic Violence Battery, Discharging a Firearm in Public, and Possession of Methamphetamine. She was transported to the Brevard County Jail and is being held on a no bond status.
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