A 44-year-old Seminole man was arrested after allegedly threatening a family with an axe during a parking dispute on Lake Drive at approximately 12:08 p.m. Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Matthew Miller, age 44, faces a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to a Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office arrest affidavit.
Deputies reported that the family had just checked into an Airbnb across the street from Miller’s residence in the 10500 block of Lake Drive. As the family walked toward their vehicles, Miller allegedly approached them aggressively about a parking complaint.
According to the affidavit, Miller began yelling and screaming while a member of the family explained they were moving the vehicles. Miller then allegedly armed himself with an axe, shook it in a threatening manner and walked toward the family.
The man told deputies he feared Miller would harm him or his family. He armed himself with a handgun and instructed his daughter to call police, the affidavit states.
During an interview after being advised of his rights, Miller admitted arguing with the man and said he retrieved the axe because he felt threatened, according to deputies. Miller also acknowledged that he grabbed the axe before any gun was mentioned and that the man never entered his property.
No injuries were reported. Miller was arrested and booked into the Pinellas County Jail on September 30.
