Florida priest injured in stabbing is released from hospital as suspect faces felony charges
[Episcopal News Service] A Florida priest who was stabbed in what authorities have described as a random attack was released from the hospital on Oct. 29 and is recovering at home, according to the Diocese of Florida.
The Rev. Matt Marino, rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in downtown St. Augustine, was wearing his clergy collar while sitting outside a coffee shop less than a mile from the church on Oct. 23, when a woman riding a bike reportedly stopped, pulled out a knife and stabbed him.
The suspect, Arieana R. Gibbs, 22, has been charged with three felonies: attempted homicide, aggravated assault and battery. Her arraignment is scheduled for Nov. 7, according to online court records. No motive has been identified for the attack.
Marino and his family “are deeply touched by the tremendous outpouring of love and support they’ve received,” the diocese said Oct. 29 in an emailed update. “As they return home, please continue to provide the Marino family with time and space to rest and focus on recovery.”
Marino has served as Trinity’s rector since 2019. His parish also released a statement about his recovery on Oct. 29. “Your prayers and kindness have been a blessing to the entire Marino family,” the vestry said in the statement. “We ask that you continue to keep them in your prayers as Father Matt recuperates at home.”
