Lake Helen Driver Busted After Blasting Rival Motorist With Wasp Spray

A short drive through Lake Helen turned into a roadside dustup when a 61-year-old woman allegedly pulled out a can of Raid wasp spray and blasted another motorist in the face, hitting her in the eye and drawing a police response. Tammy Jones was arrested on May 21 on a misdemeanor battery charge and released from the Volusia County jail after posting a $500 bond. Deputies later inspected both vehicles and reported finding physical evidence they say backed up the other driver’s account.

What deputies say

As reported by Tampa Free Press, Jones told deputies the confrontation began when the other driver pulled alongside her and accused her of “brake-checking.” The Kia driver then allegedly warned, "You’re lucky I don’t have my gun with me." Jones said she felt threatened, reached into her back seat for a can of Raid wasp spray, and sprayed the other woman before driving straight to the Lake Helen Police Department parking lot.

Victim's account and evidence

Documents reviewed by WKMG ClickOrlando tell a different story. The Kia driver reported that Jones “just started yelling at her” and then sprayed both her and the vehicle, hitting the driver directly in the eye. That driver called 911 and followed Jones to the police station to report the assault. Deputies said their inspection of the vehicles turned up physical evidence that aligned with the victim’s version of events.

Charges and next steps

Jones was booked into the Volusia County jail on one count of misdemeanor battery and released after posting a $500 bond, according to Tampa Free Press. A court date has not yet been scheduled, and the Volusia County State Attorney's Office will decide whether to formally file charges.

Legal context

According to the Florida Senate statutes, simple battery is typically a first-degree misdemeanor, which can carry up to one year in jail, though certain circumstances can elevate the charge to a felony. Prosecutors are expected to consider the physical evidence and any documented injuries when deciding whether to pursue enhanced charges in this case.

Safety takeaways

The victim’s decision to call 911 and seek out deputies at the Lake Helen police parking lot helped lead to Jones’s arrest, according to WKMG. Law enforcement officers generally urge drivers to steer clear of escalating road confrontations and to contact 911 so investigators can document the scene, gather evidence, and determine whether criminal charges are warranted.