"God's Instruction To Be Eclipse," Says US Woman On Shooting Spree

When many people stepped out on the streets to spectate the astronomical phenomenon of a solar eclipse on April 8, a 22-year-old woman turned the interstate border of the Florida Panhandle into dangerous ground after she opened fire claiming 'God' told her to do so. 

The woman identified as Taylon Nichelle Celestine belongs to Georgia and left her motel in Holmes County and even told the hotel staff that she was directed by God to 'be the eclipse' and go on a shooting spree. She was later arrested. 

US Woman On Shooting Spree: Claims Divine Instruction For Eclipse

While the details remain unclear, Celestine reportedly drove 115 miles (180 kilometres) from Alabama's borders and suddenly started open firing on the Florida highway on other vehicles for over five miles towards the highway of Washington County.

Within a few miles, she allegedly opened fire on a passing car, shattering the windows and injuring the driver in the arm with a stray bullet. Unfazed, she continued westbound, targeting another vehicle shortly after. This time, the driver was struck in the neck. The injured driver is said to be seriously injured, sustaining injuries in a nearby hospital. 

The unfazed woman did not stop there and continued rash driving and open firing on the highway before the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) who promptly acted to apprehend the woman after a roughly 16-mile chase. She was reportedly found in possession of an AR-15 rifle and a 9mm handgun. Authorities have not yet released information on Celestine's mental state or any prior criminal history.

Upon initial investigation, Celestine disclosed she was directed by 'God' who asked her to 'be an eclipse' and go on a shooting spree aligned to the solar eclipse. Celestine is sent to the Holmes County jail and charged with attempted murder, improper discharge of a firearm, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and gun violence prevention.