Florida Student Arrested After Throwing Pumpkin Off FGCU Garage, Causing $3,000 in Vehicle Damage
FLORIDA — An 18-year-old student at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) has been arrested after allegedly throwing a large pumpkin from the top of a campus parking garage, causing significant damage to a parked vehicle, according to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say Brady Hite was taken into custody on November 18 and charged with Criminal Mischief and Throwing a Deadly Missile, a second-degree felony under Florida law.
Incident Details at FGCU Campus
The incident occurred around November 16 near Parking Garage B at FGCU’s South Bridge Loop. Investigators reported that Hite allegedly tossed the pumpkin from the top of the garage, striking a car below and causing more than $3,000 in damage to the vehicle’s roof and windshield.
Initially, the vehicle’s owner filed a self-report for vandalism, but later provided video evidence showing a suspect in a white hoodie and gray sweatpants throwing the pumpkin from above.
“This wasn’t a harmless prank,” said a campus law enforcement spokesperson. “The act caused major property damage and could have seriously injured someone.”
Investigation and Arrest
Investigators discovered pumpkin debris near the damaged car and gathered witness statements identifying Hite as the suspect. Although surveillance cameras were down during the incident, detectives used a photo array lineup to confirm his identity.
Officers later located and arrested Hite at Palmetto Hall on campus. He was booked into the Lee County Jail and is awaiting court proceedings.
Charges and Legal Implications
Under Florida law, the charge of Throwing a Deadly Missile is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The Criminal Mischief charge adds potential additional penalties due to the extent of property damage.
FGCU has not yet confirmed whether disciplinary actions will follow, though the university’s student conduct code allows suspension or expulsion for felony arrests occurring on campus.
Campus Reaction and Safety Reminder
The incident has sparked concern among students and faculty over campus safety and vandalism. FGCU police have urged students to report any suspicious activity and reminded the community that even seemingly minor acts of mischief can carry severe legal consequences.
“Something that might seem like a prank can quickly turn into a criminal charge,” officials noted. “We’re fortunate no one was hurt.”
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