HENDRY COUNTY -- On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, Hendry County Deputies responded to the area of Neighborly Road in central Hendry County.  It was at this time that they spoke with a construction worker who reported he had been threatened by a nearby resident. 

The victim explained that he was preparing to complete a tile installation in a new home when he was approached by a man, later identified as 26-year-old Matthew Steven Ames.  The victim explained that Ames approached him and began speaking to him while holding a firearm to his face. 

The victim was able to run and take cover and after doing so, immediately heard three gunshots being fired.  He then was able to take cover in the home that was under construction and run out the back of the house and to a nearby residence, where he was able to call law enforcement.

After speaking with the victim and conducting an investigation, they responded to Ames’s home where they were confronted by Ames, who approached them in an aggressive manner.  Eventually, deputies were able locate the firearm used during the crime taking him into custody and transporting him to the Hendry County Jail.

Ames was arrested on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill and possession of a weapon by a Florida convicted felon.  Ames is currently being held in the Hendry County Jail on $100,000.00 bond.