Man Caught on Roof Claims Bears and Snakes Were After Him, Arrested for Criminal Mischief
Deputies with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office had a wild start to their shift when they responded to multiple calls about a man running through an Ocala neighborhood, screaming for help and causing property damage — all while claiming he was being pursued by bears and snakes.
The incident unfolded when a witness reported a white male, later identified as George Horton, had jumped her fence and was kicking her front door. Horton, described as acting erratically, reportedly damaged solar lights and other yard decorations before taking a brief porch break and then fleeing the scene.
Minutes later, deputies spotted Horton atop a large, dew-slick aluminum carport about a quarter-mile away. Despite his precarious position, he refused to come down, crawling back and forth while continuing to insist wild animals were after him. His rooftop standoff lasted roughly 20 minutes before deputies managed to coax him into a position where he could be safely removed and handcuffed.
Horton’s girlfriend arrived on the scene and informed deputies that he has schizophrenia and hadn’t been taking his prescribed medication. She was unsure if he had consumed any drugs. Horton was transported to West Marion Hospital under a Baker Act and required chemical sedation.
Once the sun came up, the witness reported extensive property damage, including a bent roof gutter, shattered solar lights, a broken dog statue, and a smashed “No Trespassing” sign. The damage totaled approximately $420.
Horton, who lives nearby, was charged with criminal mischief for his early morning chaos. No bears or snakes were located.
