Florida Woman Fights Off Suspected Attacker in Dramatic Scene Caught on Camera

A Florida woman fought off a suspected attacker in a dramatic scene captured on security video released Wednesday by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.

The video shows 24-year-old Nashali Alma opening the door to her apartment’s gym for a man authorities identified as 25-year-old Xavier Thomas-Jones on Jan. 22. Alma is seen running from him, then swinging her fists and a phone at his face as he forces her to the floor.

“As soon as he was approaching me, I said, ‘Bro, what the eff are you doing?’” Alma said in a video clip released by the sheriff’s office.

The video shows Alma pushing him away, sparking a chase throughout the gym. She punches and pushes to keep him at bay, and uses exercise equipment as obstacles.

Thomas-Jones was arrested and charged with kidnapping, false imprisonment, and battery. He is currently in jail awaiting trial.

Alma’s story has inspired many, and she has offered advice to others in the same situation. “If you’re ever in a situation like that, fight back,” she said. “Don’t be scared.”