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Man stabs library employee in eye with scissors, Daytona Beach police say

Police investigate attack at Daytona Beach Regional Library at City Island

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – A woman was attacked and injured Tuesday inside a Daytona Beach library, according to police.

The attack happened around 11:30 a.m. at the Daytona Beach Regional Library at City Island at 105 E. Magnolia Ave, police said.

The victim, a 63-year-old employee at the library, was working in the children’s section when the man walked in, greeted her then attacked her with a pair of scissors, which entered one of her eyes, according to police.

The woman was taken to Halifax Health Medical Center to be treated for injuries to her face and arms, police said. The suspected attacker was taken into police custody, according to authorities.

Authorities said video of the incident shows the attack was unprovoked, but police believe the man and woman had seen each other before.

Burman Bedford, of New Smyrna Beach.

“It was completely unwarranted,” said Deputy Chief Jakari Young.

Police said the suspect, identified as 55-year-old Burman P. Bedford, of New Smyrna Beach, was arrested inside the library. He is charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and could face other charges, according to Daytona Beach police.

Police say Bedford has been arrested before on aggravated battery charges.

Library visitors were shocked because the library is usually a quiet and safe space.

“I heard that one of the librarians was stabbed in the eye. It’s such a tragedy,” said Renee Page.

“I never would have expected this would have happened here,” said Devin Cheever. “I’m not coming to the library [until] I know it’s safe for my well being and other people well being.”

County officials said the Daytona Beach Regional Library will close for the rest of the week.

The victim is doing well considering the circumstances, according to county officials.

“She was in good spirits given what she has been through,” said Volusia County Manager George Recktenwald. “We’re thankful that she’s in the very capable hands of the medical staff at Halifax and we know that she’s getting the very best of care.”

The library is set to reopen on Monday, according to county officials.

Editor’s note: This story has been updated to reflect the suspect’s legal name of Burman Bedford. The story initially identified him as Burnian Bedford, which is an alias he uses, according to police.


About the Authors
Daniel Dahm headshot

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

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