In Pembroke Pines, Florida, a man committed to a mental institution was arrested after allegedly gouging out his roommate’s eyes during a physical altercation, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred at the South Florida State Hospital on Friday afternoon. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Reinaldo Bermeosolo, was said to have engaged in a heated argument with his roommate that quickly escalated into a violent confrontation.
Police reports indicate that Bermeosolo punched his roommate, knocked him to the ground, and then proceeded to pull out both of his eyes. The horrific scene was discovered by another patient who alerted the hospital staff. The victim was immediately rushed to a local hospital with severe injuries, resulting in permanent blindness.
Both Bermeosolo and the victim were court-ordered to be at the facility. Following the incident, Bermeosolo was taken into custody and transported to the Broward County Jail. He is currently being held without bond on an aggravated battery charge.
The incident, which reportedly began over a disagreement about a towel on the door, is still under investigation by the Pembroke Pines Police Department. The suspect’s public defender waived his court appearance, citing Bermeosolo’s severe mental impairment.
The victim, who is now permanently blind, is being heavily sedated following the attack. The case continues to unfold as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to this shocking incident.