A Fort Myers man was arrested Friday morning after authorities said he nearly chopped his roommate’s ear off with a Katana-style sword.
John Peter Heck, 60, faces a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
The attack followed an argument, according to a Lee County Sheriff’s Office report, where the victim was struck in the head and arm with the sword after alleging that Heck stole his washcloths.
The victim told police from the hospital that the argument started when Heck accused him of dropping food on the floor while cooking – and then he confronted Heck with the stolen washcloths allegation, the report shows.
The victim suffered a deep laceration to his right forearm and his right ear was nearly severed in the attack, which left him bleeding profusely according to the report.
When deputies arrived they say Heck told them he acted in self-defense.
The sword had a 20-inch blade, according to the report, which notes the victim needed more than 20 staples and stitches to reattach his ear.
