LARGO — A 74-year-old Largo man was arrested Friday after police say he intentionally drove his SUV toward another man during a dispute over a parking space outside a Largo Publix, prompting the victim to fire a single shot in self-defense.
According to a Largo Police Department arrest affidavit, Richard Clevenstine, 74, is charged with aggravated assault with a motor vehicle, a third-degree felony.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:00 p.m. on July 10 in the Publix parking lot at 3825 E. Bay Drive. Investigators allege Clevenstine intentionally and aggressively drove his white Kia Soul onto a curb and toward the victim in an apparent attempt to strike him or place him in fear of being hit.
Police said surveillance video from multiple cameras captured the encounter. According to the affidavit, Clevenstine later admitted after being advised of his Miranda rights that he drove within approximately 6 to 8 inches of the victim. Investigators determined the victim was forced to quickly move out of the way to avoid being struck.
Authorities said the victim believed his life was in imminent danger and fired one round from a firearm and into the hood compartment of Clevenstine’s vehicle before immediately calling 911. No injuries were reported.
Investigators concluded Clevenstine’s actions caused the victim to fear imminent violence, leading to the aggravated assault charge. The affidavit notes detectives do not believe Clevenstine intended to kill the victim.
Clevenstine was booked into the Pinellas County Jail on July 10 and was being held without bond, according to the arrest affidavit.