Estranged Boyfriend Kills Woman in Seminole County Home, Dies in Crash Following Attack
CHULUOTA, Fla. – A woman was stabbed to death in her Seminole County home early Friday morning by her estranged boyfriend, who later died in a car crash while fleeing the scene, according to the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO).
Kristin Stevens, 40, was found dead inside her home on Hibbard Trail after suffering between 20 and 70 stab wounds inflicted with a kitchen knife. Deputies identified her attacker as James Christopher Lindsey, 42, with whom Stevens shared an 18-year relationship and a 16-year-old son.
Details of the Attack
The incident occurred around 1 a.m. Friday when Lindsey reportedly broke into Stevens’ home by smashing a bedroom window with a hammer. Stevens’ new boyfriend, who was asleep next to her, attempted to intervene and was stabbed in the leg. He managed to escape to a neighbor’s house to call 911.
Deputies arrived at the scene within minutes to find Stevens deceased. Her son, who was asleep in the house during the attack, was unharmed.
Lindsey fled in his vehicle, a 2018 Chrysler 300, but crashed near Fort Christmas Road around 5 a.m. His car struck a stop sign, several trees, and a fence before flipping multiple times. Lindsey was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.
History of Domestic Violence
The sheriff’s office confirmed a history of domestic violence between Stevens and Lindsey. Both had sought injunctions against each other during their tumultuous relationship.
Lindsey had been arrested on November 6, 2024, for domestic violence battery against Stevens and was awaiting arraignment on the day of the attack. Despite requests from law enforcement and the State Attorney’s Office for a high bond and electronic monitoring, Lindsey was released on a $1,000 bond without monitoring.
“This is a heartbreaking and traumatic incident that will have a lasting impact on families and our community,” said Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma.
Community Reaction and Prevention
The tragedy has sparked renewed discussions about domestic violence prevention and judicial oversight. Licensed psychotherapist Dr. Janie Lacy emphasized that the period following a breakup is often the most dangerous for victims of domestic violence.
“When there’s a shared home, and the person making threats leaves, it’s important to change locks, update security codes, and install cameras,” Dr. Lacy advised.
Authorities continue to investigate the case and urge anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek help.
If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7. Call 1-800-799-SAFE or text “START” to 88788.
