Man Solves Bridge Dispute with Steel Mallet, Claims Self-Defense Against Pliers and Bike Lock

by Ryan Yousefi June 26, 2025

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Michael Anthony Russow {BSO}

A man is facing felony charges after allegedly attacking a homeless man with a steel mallet, leaving the victim unconscious and requiring emergency surgery to repair a caved-in skull.

According to a Margate Police Department arrest report, Michael Anthony Russow, 45, of Tamarac, was arrested on June 19 and charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon in connection with a violent incident that occurred earlier this month under a bridge near the 100 block of Rock Island Road.

MPD records indicate the assault took place on June 8 and began when Russow and his girlfriend confronted the homeless man over a prior incident. The victim told officers Russow used a mallet to destroy some of his belongings before turning the weapon on him.

Fearing for his safety, the victim said he grabbed a pair of pliers to defend himself and struck Russow during the scuffle. However, the victim claims Russow ultimately landed a blow to the left side of his face, knocking him unconscious. When he awoke in a pool of blood, the victim realized he had also struck the back of his head on a nearby concrete slab.

Medical staff at the hospital later informed the victim that the left side of his skull was “slightly caved in,” and he required both stitches and staples to close wounds on his head and face.

Margate detectives interviewed Russow while he was already in custody at the Broward County Main Jail on unrelated charges involving the same victim. Records show Russow had been arrested again for approaching the victim, post-assault, with a sawed-off shotgun.

Russow admitted to hitting the victim with the mallet but claimed he did so defensively, stating he was trying to protect himself from the victim, who allegedly had a metal bike lock.

Russow was released from the Broward County Main Jail after posting $12,500 bond.

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Ryan Yousefi

Ryan Yousefi has lived in Coral Springs for over 30 years. He has worked as a writer for multiples outlets over the years, including the Miami New Times where he has covered sports and culture since 2013. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Business Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.