Domestic Dispute Turns to Attempted Murder in Panama City

Domestic Dispute Turns to Attempted Murder in Panama City

PANAMA CITY, FL - On Monday, May 26, 2025, at approximately 10:00 a.m., officers with the Panama City Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting a domestic disturbance in the 600 block of East 4th Street. While en route, dispatch informed officers that the situation had escalated, with the female caller pleading for her life, stating that a man at the scene was armed with a firearm. Upon arrival, officers contacted the suspect, who surrendered peacefully and was taken into custody without incident.

Detectives responding to the scene determined that the altercation involved 49-year-old Christopher Dugent and his wife. The dispute reportedly intensified when the victim attempted to leave, prompting Mr. Dugent to become increasingly aggressive and physically prevent her from leaving. She then called 911.

The investigation further revealed that Mr. Dugent retrieved a firearm from the victim’s vehicle, loaded it, and attempted to shoot her. Fortunately, due to a failure to properly load and operate the weapon, it did not discharge.

Crime Scene Technicians processed the scene and collected evidence in support of the ongoing investigation. Christopher Dugent was arrested and booked into the Bay County Jail for attempted murder, false imprisonment, felon in possession of a firearm, and violation of probation.

The Panama City Police Department would like to commend the victim’s bravery in contacting authorities, and express our gratitude to the responding officers for their swift and professional response.

This case remains an ongoing investigation, and anyone having additional information is urged to call the Panama City Police Department at 850-872-3100. Tips can also be made anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 850-785-TIPS(8477).