Crime & Safety
Alachua County, FL Gun Threat Leads to Arrest Monday Morning Oct 19
Gainesville, FL – A 26 year old Gainesville man was arrested early Monday morning after deputies say he allegedly threatened another person with a revolver, physically assaulted them and interfered wi
By Caleb Mercer · 2026-10-19T15:40:11.621Z
Gainesville, FL – A 26 year old Gainesville man was arrested early Monday morning after deputies say he allegedly threatened another person with a revolver, physically assaulted them and interfered with their attempt to contact law enforcement.
According to the Alachua County Sheriff 's Office, Deputy J. Kramer responded Monday, Oct. 19, to a reported battery at a residence in the 7100 block of Southwest Fourth Road in Gainesville.
When deputies arrived, the victim described a verbal dispute involving 26 year old Nathaniel Cantwell.
Investigators said Cantwell allegedly left the residence, entered his vehicle and demanded that the victim come outside and get into the car.
When the victim followed his instructions, Cantwell allegedly pointed a revolver at the victim's head and pulled back the hammer.
Authorities said Cantwell then handed the firearm to the victim and demonstrated that it was unloaded.
The victim reportedly did not know the gun was unloaded when it was pointed at them.
Deputies said the victim took the firearm inside the residence and hid it.
Cantwell allegedly followed the victim back inside, where another argument began.
When the victim threatened to contact law enforcement, Cantwell allegedly took away their phone and demanded the return of his firearm.
After the victim refused, investigators said Cantwell grabbed the victim and pinned them to the ground.
The victim managed to kick Cantwell away, escape the residence and contact authorities.
Deputies subsequently located Cantwell and placed him under arrest.
Investigators also recovered the firearm allegedly used during the confrontation.
Cantwell faces three charges: aggravated assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill, battery and hindering communication with law enforcement.
The Sheriff's Office did not provide additional information about the relationship between Cantwell and the victim.
Cantwell is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.