Man Arrested After Threatening Mother and 9-Year-Old with Knife in Miami

A terrifying encounter outside a Miami hotel has left a mother and her young son traumatized after a man allegedly pulled out a knife and threatened to kill them both. Police have arrested the suspect, who now faces multiple charges as the investigation continues.

The Frightening Incident

According to police reports, the incident occurred on Friday afternoon near a downtown Miami hotel. A 38-year-old man approached a woman and her 9-year-old son on the sidewalk and allegedly pulled out a knife.
In a chilling threat, he told the mother, “I am going to cut your throat and your son’s throat.”

The woman quickly grabbed her child and called for help. Officers responded within minutes, locating the suspect nearby and taking him into custody without major resistance.

Suspect Taken Into Custody

Authorities confirmed that the man, identified as 38-year-old Jorge Felix Larrea Diaz, was arrested at the scene. Police recovered the weapon believed to have been used in the threat and transported the suspect to a local station for questioning.

He reportedly sustained minor injuries during the arrest. Officials have not yet released details about possible motives but stated that the investigation remains active.

Mother and Child Shaken but Safe

The mother and her son were unharmed but deeply shaken by the terrifying confrontation. Officers stayed with them at the scene to ensure their safety and emotional support.
Local residents expressed shock that such an incident could happen in broad daylight in a busy area of downtown Miami.

One witness described the situation as “terrifying,” adding that the woman’s quick thinking likely prevented the situation from turning deadly.

Ongoing Police Investigation

Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby buildings and speaking with witnesses who were present at the time of the incident.
Investigators are also looking into whether the suspect had any prior criminal history or connection to the victims.

Police officials commended the woman for her swift actions, saying her immediate call for help likely prevented further harm. They have urged the public to remain alert and report suspicious behavior immediately.

Community and Safety Awareness

This incident has reignited local discussions about safety in public spaces. Experts urge residents to stay aware of their surroundings and contact law enforcement immediately if they feel threatened.

Parents are also being reminded to teach children what to do in emergencies — such as moving to a safe space, calling 911, or alerting nearby adults.

Authorities’ Statement

Miami Police issued a statement emphasizing that community safety remains their top priority.
“The quick response of our officers ensured that no one was injured,” a department spokesperson said. “We take all threats involving weapons seriously and will continue to investigate this matter thoroughly.”

The suspect remains in custody and is expected to face charges related to assault, making criminal threats, and possession of a deadly weapon.

The frightening knife threat in downtown Miami serves as a powerful reminder of how unpredictable public violence can be. Thanks to the mother’s calm reaction and the police’s rapid response, a potentially tragic situation ended without injury.

The investigation is ongoing, but for now, both the mother and her son are safe — and a community shaken by fear is slowly beginning to regain its sense of security.