MIAMI - In a startling incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, Kevin Gilliam, a former Marine and retired police officer, found himself at the center of an unprovoked attack while walking along Miami's River Walk. Gilliam, determined to raise awareness and protect others from potential danger, shared his harrowing experience, urging caution and vigilance among residents and visitors.

Recounting the incident, Gilliam expressed his shock at the speed and ease with which he was overpowered by his assailant. "He just did his business, tossed me over the wall like Superman and took off running," Gilliam recalled. The assault occurred on Wednesday night, around 11 pm, as Gilliam was returning home from a movie outing with his son. Accompanied by his dog, Gypsy, they strolled along the River Walk when a stranger abruptly collided with them, without stopping.

Although initially alarmed, the stranger quickly vanished, leading Gilliam to believe the encounter was harmless. However, as Gilliam and Gypsy continued their walk, the stranger reappeared, confronting them directly. "He said that the other guy's not with you," Gilliam shared, recounting the chilling moment. "I got you now," the assailant declared before violently tackling Gilliam and hurling him over the seawall onto the jagged coral rocks below.

In the midst of the chaos, Gypsy remained unharmed but petrified. Gilliam, on the other hand, suffered a fractured shin bone from the fall. Determined to seek help, he mustered the strength to climb back over the seawall and made his way to a nearby hotel. The compassionate hotel staff provided immediate aid, offering him a wheelchair, ice, and solace until paramedics arrived.

Meanwhile, witnesses along the seawall dialed emergency services, and one courageous individual chose to follow the assailant, aiding the subsequent arrest. Within minutes, Miami Police apprehended Sean Hinz, a man who exhibited signs of mental illness, as stated in the arrest records. Hinz allegedly attacked others, threatened an officer, and harbored delusions of government conspiracy. Surprisingly, only Gilliam pressed charges, resulting in a misdemeanor battery charge against Hinz.

The Miami-Dade State Attorney's office has pledged to thoroughly examine the evidence, including surveillance footage, to determine if additional or more severe charges are warranted. Typically, such decisions are made within 21 days of an arrest, according to a spokesperson for the state attorney's office.

Grateful that he bore the brunt of the attack and not his loved ones, Gilliam expressed his relief while commending the police and witnesses for their assistance in holding the assailant accountable. However, he emphasized the importance of collective awareness and urged caution to those traversing the River Walk. "Don't travel by yourself," Gilliam warned, underlining the need for enhanced personal safety measures.

As the community rallies around Kevin Gilliam, his experience serves as a chilling reminder that no one is immune to such unprovoked acts of violence. His plea for vigilance echoes throughout Miami's River Walk, compelling residents and visitors alike to remain cautious, look out for one another, and report any suspicious activity.

As the legal process unfolds, the outcome of this case will not only impact the lives of the individuals involved but also serve as a reflection of society's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its members. May Kevin Gilliam's resilience inspire us all to take a united stand against violence and work towards creating a community that prioritizes the protection and well-being of its citizens.

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