Safety Remains Priority After Cascades Park Incident

September 11, 2025

On Sept. 10, at approximately 5:21 p.m., the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) received a call reporting that 19-year-old Octavious McCaine had abruptly left home in an agitated state and might become violent if approached. Officers instantly began searching locations he was known to frequent.

At 7:35 p.m., officers were called to Cascades Park for a welfare check on an individual reported to be in distress. Just minutes later, at 7:39 p.m., the Consolidated Dispatch Agency began receiving multiple 911 calls reporting that people had been stabbed in the park.

Officers, who were already in the area, immediately responded. The two victims, both adult females, were transported to a local hospital and are expected to survive their injuries.

The suspect ran toward a fenced retaining wall, climbed over it and jumped into a pond inside the park. The Leon County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team later recovered the individual, identified as McCaine, who was pronounced deceased. Preliminary findings indicate McCaine was the same person earlier reported to be in distress and suspected of stabbing the women.

“This was a deeply unsettling incident, and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and the witnesses who were impacted by this attack,” Chief Lawrence Revell said. “I am grateful for the quick and coordinated response from multiple units within the Tallahassee Police Department, as well as the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Capitol Police, Tallahassee Fire Department, and Leon County EMS. Together, their action prevented further harm.”

TPD will maintain an increased law enforcement presence at Cascades Park to provide reassurance for parkgoers.

While the motive for the attack remains under investigation, preliminary information indicates the suspect was experiencing a severe mental health episode at the time of the incident.

Chief Revell added, “We recognize that random acts of violence are especially frightening for a community. While such incidents are rare, they serve as a reminder to remain vigilant and look out for one another. Tallahassee is a strong, resilient city, and together we will continue to ensure our parks and public spaces remain places where families and friends can gather safely.”

This remains an open and active investigation. Detectives ask anyone who may have witnessed the incident but did not speak with an officer on scene to please call 850-891-4200. They may also remain anonymous by calling Crime Solvers at 850-574-TIPS.