Miami-Dade County, Florida — What began as a heated exchange over a pair of sneakers escalated into a violent confrontation last month, after a man allegedly returned with a knife and tried to stab a stranger following an argument over whether the shoes were fake, police said.
Authorities identified the suspect as Jose Chacon Martinez, 34, who is now facing an attempted murder charge after the incident on Dec. 17, 2025. According to an arrest report reviewed by investigators, Martinez approached a group of young men he did not know and accused one of them of wearing counterfeit Air Jordan sneakers.
Dispute Quickly Escalated, Police Say
Investigators said Martinez questioned the condition of the shoes, pointing out that the branding appeared worn away. The man wearing the sneakers responded that the damage was due to rain, sweat, and normal wear.
The conversation reportedly grew tense. Police said the alleged victim eventually told Martinez to leave, at which point Martinez became agitated and threatened violence.
Martinez allegedly told the group, “I’m going to go get my gun,” before walking away toward his scooter.
As he left, police said Martinez turned back and warned, “I’ll be back, you shall see.”
Knife Attack Caught on Video
Roughly five to ten minutes later, the alleged victim told police he felt a tug on his shoulder. Expecting to see one of his friends, he instead turned around to find Martinez standing behind him — allegedly holding a large kitchen knife.
The victim jumped back and began recording the encounter on his phone.
Police say Martinez then swung the knife, knocking the phone from the victim’s hand. As the victim tried to retrieve it, Martinez allegedly lunged again, attempting to stab him in the face, but missed.
The alleged attack continued as the victim kept filming, according to police.
DoorDash Driver Also Arrested
During the confrontation, Martinez reportedly entered the front passenger seat of a red vehicle driven by Gerdenson Rodriguez Ordonez, 28, who police identified as a DoorDash driver.
Ordonez told officers he did not personally know Martinez but had seen him earlier that day. According to police, Martinez told Ordonez that Uber and DoorDash drivers were “talking about him” at a nearby Five Guys restaurant. Ordonez said he drove to the location to “clarify the matter.”
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Police allege that despite witnessing Martinez attempt to stab the victim, Ordonez allowed him into the vehicle and drove away. Ordonez was charged as an accessory and is currently being held on an immigration hold, with a court hearing scheduled for Jan. 20.
Suspect Turns Himself In
Martinez was identified as the suspect days after the incident. Police said he turned himself in voluntarily on Wednesday.
During a court appearance on Thursday, a judge ordered Martinez held without bond at Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation. He is also being detained on an immigration hold. His arraignment is scheduled for Feb. 9.
Case Highlights Random Violence Concerns
Authorities noted that the victim and Martinez were complete strangers, underscoring concerns about sudden, unpredictable violence sparked by minor disputes.
No serious physical injuries were reported in the attack, but police emphasized that the case is being treated as attempted murder due to the alleged intent and use of a deadly weapon.
Investigators have not released additional details about surveillance footage or whether further charges could be filed.
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