Margate, Florida — A South Florida woman survived a horrifying overnight attack after authorities say her brother repeatedly struck her with a machete while she slept beside her 1-year-old daughter, leaving her with life-altering injuries before she managed to escape and seek help from neighbors.
The suspect, 36-year-old Ruben Altidore, was arrested Monday and now faces multiple felony charges in connection with the violent assault.
Police Say Attack Happened While Victim Was Sleeping
According to investigators, the attack occurred early Monday inside a home in Margate, about 40 miles north of Miami.
Authorities allege that Altidore entered his sister’s bedroom and repeatedly attacked her with a machete while she was asleep next to her young daughter.
The arrest report states that during the assault, Altidore allegedly shouted:
“Oh my God, why aren’t you dead yet?”
Prosecutors allege the attack was an attempt to kill the victim, though she ultimately survived despite suffering severe injuries.
Woman Escaped Despite Serious Injuries
Investigators said the victim sustained multiple deep lacerations during the attack.
According to the arrest report, she suffered a 10-inch wound reaching the bone on the back of her right thigh, along with a deep cut to her right hand that may require the amputation of at least four fingers.
She also suffered near amputations of her left index finger and thumb, as well as another severe wound to her left palm.
Despite the extensive injuries, authorities said the woman managed to escape from the home and run to a nearby residence for help.
According to local reports, home surveillance cameras captured her screams as she fled. When officers arrived, investigators said she repeatedly cried out:
“My brother is trying to kill me.”
Toddler Found Covered in Blood but Unharmed
After responding to the scene, investigators found the victim’s 1-year-old daughter lying in the bed covered in blood. Authorities confirmed that the child was not physically injured, despite being next to her mother during the alleged attack.
Police later emphasized that the child’s presence during the incident contributed to one of the charges filed against Altidore.
Evidence Recovered Inside the Home
Investigators reported finding a large amount of blood throughout the victim’s bedroom, with blood trails extending into the hallway, near a bathroom, and outside the home.
Police also recovered a machete sheath in the kitchen.
A machete was later discovered underneath a bed, and investigators said it appeared to contain red-colored smudges consistent with possible blood evidence.
Authorities also interviewed relatives and neighbors.
A cousin reportedly told detectives that Altidore had attacked his sister with the machete, while neighbor Luis Pereria described seeing the victim run into the street before arriving at his front door asking for help.
Suspect Remains in Jail as Investigation Continues
Altidore was arrested Monday and booked into the Broward County Main Jail. According to jail records, he has been charged with attempted felony murder, aggravated child abuse, and violation of probation.
He is currently being held without bond.
Investigators have not identified a motive for the alleged attack, and the case remains under active investigation as authorities continue gathering evidence.
What are your thoughts on this case? Should penalties be tougher for violent crimes committed in the presence of young children? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
