A deeply disturbing incident has shaken the community of DeLand after authorities say a 36-year-old man allegedly attacked a 13-year-old boy at a school bus stop.
According to police, Christopher Steven Schwable was re-arrested following the early morning assault, which investigators say occurred just days after his release from jail. Officials allege that Schwable approached the teen at the bus stop and used a knife during the confrontation, reportedly choking and striking the boy.
Law enforcement reports indicate that a passing motorist witnessed the attack and immediately intervened, physically restraining the suspect until officers arrived on the scene. Authorities credited the bystander’s quick actions with potentially preventing more serious harm.
The 13-year-old victim sustained injuries and was treated following the incident. While police have not publicly detailed the full extent of the physical harm, officials acknowledged that such an attack can also leave lasting emotional trauma — particularly for a child targeted while waiting for school transportation.
Schwable has since been charged with aggravated child abuse and assault. As with all criminal cases, the allegations will be tested through the legal process in court.
The incident has sparked concern among residents, especially given the timing of the alleged attack so soon after the suspect’s prior release. Community members have raised broader questions about offender monitoring, public safety safeguards, and protections for children in everyday settings like bus stops.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the assault, including motive and whether the victim was specifically targeted. Police have also emphasized the importance of community vigilance and reporting suspicious behavior promptly.
For families in DeLand, the event is a sobering reminder of how quickly violence can disrupt ordinary routines — and how critical swift intervention can be in preventing even greater tragedy.