Fernandina Beach, Florida – A gaming dispute escalated to physical violence when Edward Kang traveled from New Jersey to Florida to confront a fellow gamer in person. The incident, described by Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper as “weird,” unfolded when Kang entered the victim’s home in Fernandina Beach dressed in ninja-like attire. Kang, 20, allegedly attacked the victim with a hammer during the confrontation.
Despite being struck in the head, the victim managed to overpower Kang with the help of his stepfather, who intervened after hearing the commotion. The authorities were alerted and Kang was apprehended at the scene. Sheriff Leeper reported a scene of bloodshed in the entryway and the victim’s room as a result of the altercation.
Following the incident, Kang was treated for serious head injuries and released from the hospital, while facing charges of attempted second-degree murder and armed burglary. Kang’s motive reportedly stemmed from his belief that the victim was a problematic individual in the online gaming world.
The two individuals had a history of interactions in the game ArcheAge, which is set to be discontinued due to declining player activity. Kang had informed his family that he was meeting an online “friend” from years past, leading to his journey from Newark to Jacksonville. Prior to the confrontation, Kang purchased a hammer and flashlight from a hardware store, leaving behind evidence of his intent.
Sheriff Leeper emphasized the risks of real-life consequences resulting from online disputes and advised caution, urging people to report suspicious behavior and secure their homes. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of mixing virtual conflicts with real-world confrontations.