Frostproof, FL – A tranquil Saturday evening at Lake Reedy Park turned perilous when gunshots were fired near the North Lake Reedy boat ramp, prompting a swift response from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred around 7:42 p.m. on May 3rd. Deputies arrived at the scene and spoke with an adult and two teenagers who reported hearing gunfire and witnessing bullets striking the water near their boat.
The adult victim told deputies he saw an older white male onshore holding a long rifle. In an attempt to alert the man to their presence, the victim said he waved his arms in the air. Despite this, the suspect allegedly raised the rifle again and aimed it in their direction. The adult quickly told the juveniles to take cover as he maneuvered the boat away from the danger.
Detectives later identified and located the alleged shooter as 69-year-old James Robert Fatout of Frostproof. Fatout initially claimed he had only been shooting at birds over the lake and denied pointing the weapon at anyone. However, authorities noted he later remarked, “At least I got a shot at ‘em before y’all got here.”
James Fatout was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and transported to the Polk County Jail. He is facing three counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and one count of Improper Exhibition of a Firearm.
Lake Reedy Park, located at 1093 Lake Reedy Blvd. N. in Frostproof, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers amenities such as picnic tables, a fishing pier, and a boat launch, making it a favored spot for boating and fishing activities. The lake itself spans over 3,500 acres and is known for its bass fishing opportunities
