VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — In a sentencing hearing held on August 21, 2025, Felixander Solis-Guzman, a 16-year-old at the time of the incident, entered a no-contest plea to multiple serious charges related to a spring break incident on New Smyrna Beach. Solis-Guzman was sentenced to eight years in prison followed by five years of probation.
The charges to which Solis-Guzman pled no-contest included:
- Three counts of Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer (Firearm)
- In-State Delinquent in Possession of Firearm
- Possession of Firearm during any Felony
- Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Sell
- Improper Exhibition of a Firearm/Dangerous Weapon
- Resisting an Officer with Violence
- Two counts of Tampering with Evidence
The incident occurred on March 14, 2025, during one of the large spring break crowds on New Smyrna Beach. According to court documents, a fight broke out among attendees when Solis-Guzman drew a firearm and pointed it at another individual in the crowd. Deputies on scene issued multiple commands for Solis-Guzman to drop the weapon. Rather than comply, he fled toward the shoreline while holding the gun. He eventually threw both the gun and a satchel into the ocean. The satchel was later recovered and contained multiple baggies of marijuana.
State Attorney R.J. Larizza commented on the case, stating, “The defendant is extremely fortunate he was not shot and killed on the beach that day. The responding deputies demonstrated amazing restraint and professionalism. More than can be said for the defendant.”
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood emphasized the broader message of the sentencing: “Let this serve as a reminder that we have consequences waiting for those who cause chaos and violence in our community. Law enforcement will arrest you, the State Attorney will prosecute you, and you just might get several years to think about the bad decisions that led you to your prison cell.”
The case was investigated by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, with Assistant State Attorney Helen Schwartz successfully prosecuting for the state. The Honorable Elizabeth Blackburn presided over the sentencing hearing and delivered the final sentence.
This case underscores the dangers of firearms in public settings, particularly in crowded areas, and highlights the importance of swift law enforcement response in preventing potential tragedies.
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