Orange Park, Florida – A Florida mother survived a violent knife attack after her estranged 62-year-old mother allegedly forced her way into the home and tried to kill her, according to deputies. The shocking incident took a dramatic turn when the woman’s 8-year-old daughter intervened, stabbing her grandmother to protect her mother. Authorities say the child’s quick action likely prevented a tragedy.
Incident Overview
Clay County deputies say the violent encounter unfolded Monday afternoon at a residence on Reese Avenue in the Oakleaf area of Orange Park, located about 20 miles south of Jacksonville. The suspect, Serpil Nebiye Adams, 62, is now charged with attempted second-degree murder after allegedly attacking her adult daughter with a serrated utility knife.
The victim managed to call 911 around 3:15 p.m., frantically yelling at someone to leave her home. According to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrived to find a disturbing scene.
“They observed blood on the sidewalk,” investigators wrote in the arrest affidavit.
Timeline of Events
Deputies learned that Adams had arrived uninvited and entered the home through an unlocked door. The victim was inside with her two young children when the attack began.
Authorities say Adams immediately confronted her daughter and began slashing at her with the knife. The victim fought back while trying to protect her children, but the attack escalated rapidly.
“The victim had a physical altercation with her estranged biological mother,” the sheriff’s office stated.
Blood was later found outside leading toward the street.
“The storm drain was also in the direct path of the blood drops leading from the residence to the suspect’s vehicle,” the affidavit noted.
Child’s Intervention Saves Her Mother
The most shocking detail in the case came from the victim’s statement to deputies. As the attack intensified, the victim’s 8-year-old daughter took action that likely saved her mother’s life.
“While attempting to protect her mother, the victim’s 8-year-old daughter retrieved a kitchen knife and stabbed Adams in the upper arm,” the sheriff’s office said.
The injury forced Adams to retreat, giving the victim a chance to escape further harm.
Despite the violent struggle, deputies confirmed that neither the victim nor her children suffered injuries during the attack.
Investigation and Arrest
After identifying Adams as the suspect, deputies showed the victim a driver’s license photograph, which she positively confirmed was her mother. Investigators then tracked the suspect’s vehicle, which was registered to another woman.
The investigation eventually led officers to Jacksonville, where Adams had been staying with a friend.
“The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office located Adams inside the friend’s residence, and she was taken into custody without incident,” officials said.
During a custodial interview, Adams invoked her Miranda rights and requested an attorney, ending further questioning.
Officials’ Statements and Key Facts
- Suspect: Serpil Nebiye Adams, 62
- Charge: Attempted second-degree murder without premeditation
- Location: Reese Avenue, Oakleaf area, Orange Park, Florida
- Time of 911 Call: Approximately 3:15 p.m.
- Weapon: Serrated utility knife
- Defendant’s Bond: Just over $500,000
- Next Court Date: December 16
- Source: Clay County Sheriff’s Office press release
According to details, deputies documented extensive blood evidence along the sidewalk during their investigation.
Community and Safety Context
Cases involving family violence are among the most unpredictable and dangerous situations deputies encounter. Experts note that estranged family members often show up unannounced, and these confrontations can escalate rapidly—especially when weapons are involved.
The incident also highlights the psychological toll such events can have on young children. Authorities often emphasize long-term counseling and support for minors exposed to domestic violence, even when they act heroically under pressure.
Residents are also urged to take precautions such as locking doors, using security cameras, and maintaining communication with local law enforcement if estranged relatives pose ongoing concerns.
Conclusion
The horrifying attack in Orange Park could have ended in tragedy if not for the courageous actions of an 8-year-old girl, who stepped in to stop her grandmother’s rampage. As Serpil Nebiye Adams awaits trial, the community is left grappling with the unsettling details of a family dispute that turned violently criminal.
Have you ever witnessed or experienced a situation involving family conflict or emergency response? Share your experiences in the comments below.
