In a shocking incident that has rattled the West Palm Beach community, a 29‑year‑old man named Keo Nottage Jr. allegedly attacked his grandmother with a kitchen knife 11 times on Mother’s Day, after a simple request to help carry groceries turned into a violent outburst. Police reports and an arrest affidavit detail how a family dinner plan spiraled into a life‑threatening confrontation that left the grandmother fighting for her life.
What Happened on Mother’s Day?
The incident took place at a family residence in West Palm Beach on May 12, 2026, the day many families celebrate their mothers. According to the arrest affidavit filed by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the victim’s grandmother, who was preparing a special dinner, had just returned from a grocery store with her granddaughter’s cousin. The cousin asked Nottage to help carry the bags into the house. Nottage allegedly refused, citing a lack of time or willingness to assist.
When the cousin tried to persuade him again, the situation escalated. Witnesses say Nottage’s demeanor shifted from irritation to anger. He then brandished a kitchen knife and repeatedly stabbed the grandmother, striking her 11 times. The victim suffered severe injuries to her chest, abdomen, and arms, and was rushed to a nearby hospital where she received emergency surgery.
Police arrived within minutes of the first call. They found the knife in Nottage’s possession and evidence of a struggle in the kitchen. Nottage was taken into custody without further incident.
Legal Consequences and Charges
Following the arrest, Nottage was charged with multiple serious offenses. The indictment lists:
- First‑degree assault with a deadly weapon
- Second‑degree assault with a deadly weapon
- Criminal homicide (pending investigation)
- Possession of a weapon in a violent crime
- Resisting arrest and obstruction of justice
Florida law treats repeated stabbings as an aggravating factor, potentially elevating the case to a felony with a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. If the prosecution can prove intent to kill, the charge could rise to first‑degree murder, carrying a life sentence.
In addition to criminal charges, the victim’s family has filed a civil lawsuit seeking damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of future earnings. The lawsuit also requests a restraining order to keep Nottage away from the grandmother’s home and any family gatherings.
Impact on the Family and Community
For the family, the incident has been devastating. The grandmother, who had been a pillar of strength for her relatives, is now recovering from multiple surgeries and long‑term physical therapy. Her granddaughter, who was present during the attack, has been placed in a protective custody program to ensure her safety.
Local community leaders have called for increased support for domestic violence victims. “We cannot let a single moment of anger turn into a tragedy,” said a spokesperson for the West Palm Beach Community Center. “We need better resources for conflict resolution and mental health counseling.”
Law enforcement officials have also highlighted the importance of early intervention. “If anyone notices a family member showing signs of aggression or distress, we encourage them to reach out to local hotlines or law enforcement before a situation escalates,” said a deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
Understanding Florida’s Domestic Violence Laws
Florida’s statutes provide robust protections for victims of domestic violence. Under Chapter 784 of the Florida Statutes, a person who commits an assault with a deadly weapon against a family member can face enhanced penalties. The law also allows for protective orders, which can be issued by a judge if the victim demonstrates a reasonable fear of future harm.
In cases involving multiple stabbings, the court may consider the defendant’s prior criminal history, any history of
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