A man who once portrayed the Florida State University “Chief Osceola” mascot was stabbed to death in Panama City Beach, Florida after police say an argument with a fellow restaurant employee over gumbo spices turned deadly, NBC affiliate WTLV reports.
According to multiple news outlets, including ESPN, Caleb Joshua Halley portrayed FSU’s “Chief Osceola” from 2004-2007. Halley was employed at Buddy’s Seafood Market in Panama City, along with 26-year-old Orlando Thompson.
According to Panama City Beach police reports, the co-workers were arguing last Tuesday over the amount of spice to put into the restaurant’s gumbo. Surveillance video revealed that the two initially armed themselves to fight, with Thompson grabbing a wooden board and Halley pulling out a small pocket knife.
The fight initially ended with no injuries. However, Thompson left and came back with a 15-inch knife and continued the fight.
Halley was taken to the hospital with three lacerations. Last Thursday, Halley died from his injuries.
Thompson has been charged with manslaughter in connection with Halley’s death. He is in the Bay County Jail awaiting his first appearance.
It is not known if Thompson has hired an attorney.
