MARIANNA, FL – A Georgia man was arrested in Marianna, Florida, after breaking into a woman’s home twice and confronting her with a hammer. The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Gary Danuail Wallace from Bainbridge, Georgia, now faces multiple charges, including burglary, assault, and theft, according to the Marianna Police Department.
Midnight Break-In Leads to Arrest
The incident occurred shortly after midnight on March 11, 2025, when officers responded to reports of a burglary in progress at an apartment on the 3000 block of Jefferson Street. The suspect had already fled the scene, but officers found an abandoned running vehicle with the driver’s door open in a nearby parking lot, raising suspicions.
Upon approaching the apartment, officers heard a heated argument inside and immediately intervened. Inside, they found Wallace standing in the doorway, still armed with a hammer. He was quickly detained without further incident.
Social Media Connection Gone Wrong
Investigators later uncovered that Wallace had met the victim just three weeks prior on a social media app. The two had been in contact, but the woman later stopped communicating with him. Wallace, apparently upset by the sudden silence, drove from Georgia to Florida to confront her.
According to reports, Wallace broke into the victim’s apartment while she was away. Inside, he discovered another man’s wallet and took it, seemingly to identify the individual. Instead of leaving, he decided to wait inside the apartment for the woman and her companion to return.
Second Break-In and Assault
When the woman and her male companion arrived home, Wallace armed himself with a hammer and confronted them. The situation escalated quickly, with Wallace allegedly swinging the hammer and causing property damage inside the apartment.
Fearing for her safety, the woman threatened to call the police, prompting Wallace to flee the scene. However, in a shocking turn of events, he returned shortly after and broke in again.
It was during this second intrusion that the authorities arrived and took him into custody.
Legal Consequences
Wallace is now facing multiple criminal charges, including:
✅ Burglary of an unoccupied dwelling
✅ Burglary of an occupied dwelling with assault while armed
✅ Criminal mischief (less than $200 in damages)
✅ Petit theft
If convicted, he could face serious jail time due to the nature of the offenses.
Police Urge Public to Stay Alert
The Marianna Police Department is urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in their neighborhood.
Anyone with further information about this incident or other criminal activities is encouraged to contact:
📞 Marianna Police Department: (850) 526-3125
📞 Chipola Crime Stoppers: (850) 526-5000 or (888) 804-8494
🌐 Submit anonymous tips online: www.chipolacrimestoppers.com
Final Thoughts
This disturbing case highlights the dangers of online interactions leading to real-life consequences. What started as an online connection turned into a terrifying home invasion. Authorities stress the importance of online safety and remind the public to be cautious when sharing personal details with strangers.
With the suspect now in custody, the community can breathe a sigh of relief, but the incident serves as a warning about the risks of digital relationships and unwanted attention.
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