Kissimmee Incident Leaves Pregnant Woman in Hospital after Stabbing Over Tip Dispute
Kissimmee, Florida – A pregnant woman is currently recovering in the hospital following a horrific stabbing incident that occurred at the Riviera Motel on Sunday, December 22, 2024. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office reported that the woman was attacked multiple times by a pizza delivery driver upset over the size of her tip.
What Happened
According to a statement from the sheriff’s office, officers arrived on the scene to find the victim, Melinda Irizarry, suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was promptly transported to the hospital, where she is now reported to be in stable condition.
Who is Involved
The alleged attacker, Brianna Alvelo, aged 22, has been arrested on several serious charges including Home Invasion with a firearm, Attempted Murder, Kidnapping, and Aggravated Assault. Alvelo is currently held at the Osceola County Jail. An unidentified male accomplice, who was armed during the attack, is still on the loose.
Details of the Incident
The incident reportedly unfolded after Irizarry ordered a pizza for her and her family. The total cost of the pizza was approximately $33, and she gave Alvelo a tip of just $2. This small tip led to Alvelo returning to the motel with a male suspect, both dressed in black and wearing masks, where they forced their way into Irizarry’s room.
Alarming Assault
Once inside, Alvelo brandished a knife and began to attack Irizarry. The affidavit regarding the case indicates that Irizarry was stabbed a total of 14 times, resulting in a ruptured lung along with wounds on her chest, arms, legs, and abdomen.
Response and Investigation
At the time of the attack, Irizarry was with her boyfriend and their five-year-old daughter. The assailants forced Irizarry’s boyfriend into the bathroom while they searched the motel room.
During the chaos, Irizarry protected her daughter and attempted to grab her phone to call for help, but Alvelo smashed the device and continued the assault. Following their departure, Irizarry sought medical attention, where it was during treatment that she discovered she was pregnant.
Community Reaction
The community is shaken by this violent act, as it raises significant concerns about safety and the circumstances leading to such a drastic escalation over a tipping disagreement. Law enforcement officials have urged anyone who may have information about the unidentified male suspect to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Conclusion
The situation highlights the alarming instances of violence surrounding everyday scenarios. Melinda Irizarry’s recovery remains the priority, and as investigations continue, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office is working diligently to bring the second suspect to justice.
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
