The total solar eclipse cutting a path across the United States was an event that captivated millions of people, but for one woman in Florida, it led to a disturbing incident. Taylon Nichelle Celestine, a 22-year-old woman from Georgia, checked out of a Florida hotel and told staff that she was going on a God-directed shooting spree because of the solar eclipse. She then proceeded to shoot two drivers on Interstate 10 before being arrested and charged with attempted murder. The woman was driving a purple Dodge Challenger with Georgia plates and was found in possession of an AR-15 rifle and a 9mm handgun when she was apprehended by troopers.
The incident took place 115 miles from the Alabama border in the Florida Panhandle, where Celestine opened fire on passing cars within 5 miles of the highway, injuring two drivers in the process. One driver was grazed in the arm by the gunfire, while the other was hit in the neck and had to be treated at a hospital for their injuries. Celestine was charged with attempted murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, and improper discharge of a firearm, and was booked into the Holmes County jail following her arrest. Details about her bail or legal representation were not provided by the Florida Highway Patrol.
While Florida was not in the path of totality for the total solar eclipse, millions of people across the country watched the rare celestial event unfold. Researchers had previously noted an increase in fatal car crashes during North America’s previous total solar eclipse in 2017, cautioning that such events could lead to a temporary spike in traffic accidents. Although officials did not warn of any expected increase in crime during the eclipse, the shooting incident involving Celestine served as a somber reminder of the potential for unexpected and dangerous behavior during such events.
The Florida Highway Patrol did not disclose any specific details about the motive behind Celestine’s actions or whether she had a history of criminal behavior. The shocking nature of the incident and the fact that it occurred in the context of a rare astronomical event like a total solar eclipse added to the public’s dismay over the shooting. Celestine’s choice to bring firearms into the situation and target innocent drivers on the highway highlighted the dangers of individuals acting on irrational impulses, especially during high-profile events that attract widespread attention. The incident underscored the need for increased awareness and vigilance to prevent similar acts of violence in the future.
