Full Breakdown
Random Attack on 13-Year-Old in Daytona Beach Raises Concerns
2/19/2026, 5:49:33 AM
Incident Overview
On February 14, 2026, a 13-year-old boy named Sullivan Clarke was attacked while walking along the Daytona Beach Boardwalk with his parents. The assailant, Jermaine Lynn Long, 44, allegedly approached Clarke and slashed his neck with a boxcutter in an unprovoked attack. The incident occurred near the Slingshot ride around 10:05 p.m., shortly after the family had spent the day at the Daytona International Speedway. Clarke's mother, Lori, witnessed the attack and initially thought Long was attempting to steal her son's phone. The attack resulted in a severe laceration that required 13 stitches, with doctors indicating that a deeper cut could have been fatal.
Background on the Suspect
Jermaine Long, a registered sex offender, had a lengthy criminal history, including multiple arrests for violent offenses. Just four days prior to the attack on Clarke, Long was released from jail after prosecutors declined to pursue charges related to a January incident where he allegedly threatened two men with a knife and struck them with an 8-foot pole. On the day of the attack, police had already responded to two incidents involving Long, including one where he swung a sledgehammer at a man. Despite these encounters, he was not arrested until after the attack on Clarke.
Law Enforcement Response
Following the attack, Long was apprehended by police near an overpass close to Joe's Crab Shack. He was charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and is currently being held without bond. The Daytona Beach Police Department has stated that they are reviewing the circumstances surrounding Long's earlier interactions with law enforcement to understand why he was not arrested sooner. Bill Rhodes, the director of operations for the police department, noted that Long is well-known to officers in the area due to his extensive criminal background.
Family's Reaction and Community Concerns
The Clarke family has expressed outrage over Long's release prior to the attack, questioning why he was allowed to roam freely despite his violent history. Sullivan's father, Jerod, stated, "I don’t know why he was walking around," highlighting the family's concerns for safety in the area. In response to the incident, Daytona Beach police plan to increase their presence around the Boardwalk, especially with upcoming events like Bike Week.
Official Statements & Responses
The Volusia County State Attorney's Office is reviewing the previous case against Long, and the police department is conducting an internal review of their handling of the incidents involving him. The Clarke family has been vocal about their desire for accountability and answers regarding Long's prior release.
Verbatim Quotes
“His neck was hurting but he really wanted to go so we tried to keep things as normal as possible as I said ‘let’s go,’” — Jerod Clarke, Father
“I thought he was stealing Sully's phone,” — Lori Clarke, Mother
“From the initial time of the call to the time he was in handcuffs was within a couple of minutes,” — Bill Rhodes, Director of Operations, Daytona Beach Police Department
“I was on the phone at the time … and some crazy dude comes up behind me, and he tries to cut my throat,” — Sullivan Clarke, Victim
What's Next
Long is scheduled for a hearing where prosecutors will seek to keep him in jail before trial. The community remains on edge as they await further developments in this case and the police review of their prior interactions with Long.
