On March 18, 2025, at approximately 9:22 am, Florida Highway Patrol State Troopers responded to a report of an active assault taking place on northbound Interstate 75 at mile marker 222, inside a construction zone.
Upon arrival, State Troopers determined that a verbal argument had ensued between Ms. Finale Mareus, age 37, of Bradenton, and an adult male victim (both construction company employees), which in turn led to a physical confrontation.
During the physical encounter, Ms. Mareus bit the victim’s cheek and struck the victim in the head area with a steel rebar, which caused significant injuries. The victim was treated on scene by EMS but refused transport.
Ms. Mareus was placed under arrest for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and booked into the Manatee County Jail.
