Politics may be to blame for turnpike stabbing death

Orlando, Fla. — The man accused of killing his boss on Florida’s Turnpike may have done so following a heated argument over politics, according to an arrest affidavit.

Mason Toney, 28, is accused of fatally stabbing his employer and childhood friend, 28-year-old William Knight, just before 10:45 a.m. Monday in the area of Exit 254 near South Orange Blossom Trail and West Taft Vineland Road.

Officials believe Knight drove Toney to work as he usually does before the two possibly got into an argument that led to the crime.

According to an arrest affidavit, coworkers described Knight as an outspoken supporter for the American government and President Donald Trump, while Toney was anti-government and believed agents “were out to get him.”

Officials said deputies found Knight’s body near an excavator with a new American flag near his body.

According to court officials, witnesses saw Toney stabbing Knight repeatedly with a trowel while standing over him.

Witnesses said they attempted to stop Toney by throwing things at him before he began to move toward them and eventually flee the scene. As he drove away in a truck belonging to Lane Construction, witnesses stated he yelled out to them that they were “terrorists.”

Toney was later captured and taken into custody without incident by officials with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

Witnesses said Toney brought a bag to work that day, which isn’t customary as tools are provided on the work site.

Toney remains in custody without bond.