PANAMA CITY BEACH — Officers have arrested a suspect sought in connection with a stabbing incident at a gas station, according to a Bay County Sheriff’s Office press release.
BCSO and Panama City Beach Police Department announced Thursday the arrest of 27-year-old Steven Avila-Martinez, of Panama City Beach. Avila-Martinez was wanted in connection with a March 29 stabbing incident at a gas station at the corner of Joan Avenue and North Lagoon, according to BCSO.
Avila-Martinez is believed to also have committed a burglary at an unoccupied beach vacation residence at 16691 Front Beach Road #2. He was taken into custody inside this residence and officers from the PCBPD responded to assist in the investigation.
As he was removed from the residence, Avila-Martinez allegedly made threats about the presence of an explosive device inside the residence. BCSO’s Bomb Squad was notified and responded and cleared the residence, finding no explosive device.
BCSO allegedly found a small quantity of methamphetamine on Avila-Martinez at the time.
Avila-Martinez has been charged with a aggravated battery and possession of meth and paraphernalia.
PCBPD additionally charged Avila-Martinez with burglary and making a false bomb threat. Avila-Martinez is currently in the Bay County Jail awaiting first appearance.