A tragic incident occurred at a therapy office in Orlando, Florida, when a former client fatally stabbed a therapist before fleeing the scene and later taking his own life. The attack has raised serious questions about security and safety measures in place at the office building.
Details of the Attack
Rebecca White, 44, a licensed mental health counselor, had just completed a session with another client on the evening of January 19, 2026, when Michael Smith, 39, arrived at her office. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Smith demanded to speak with White, which led to a violent confrontation. Deputies say Smith then began repeatedly stabbing both White and her client, a man in his 30s.
The client, whose identity has not been disclosed, managed to call 911 despite his injuries, alerting authorities to the scene. Both White and the client were transported to a local hospital, but White succumbed to her injuries.
The client is expected to survive but faces significant physical damage, including a scar on his mouth and possible nerve damage in his hand, according to his mother, who shared an update on a GoFundMe page.
Smith’s Suicide and Investigation
Smith fled the scene after the attack, and his body was found the next morning, about 14 miles away from the office.
Deputies believe Smith died by suicide. While the exact motive for the confrontation remains unclear, records obtained by FOX 35 revealed that Smith was a registered sex offender who had been released from prison in 2022. His parole required psychological evaluations due to a history of violent offenses.
The authorities have not yet shared any additional details on the reason behind Smith’s violent outburst.
Concerns About Safety and Building Access
White’s family has voiced significant concerns about the lack of security at the office building where the incident occurred.
In a statement to FOX 35, the family said, “We are struggling to understand how this could have happened… there are serious and troubling questions surrounding building access, security measures, surveillance, and how an individual was able to enter the premises during those hours.”
They further stated, “This tragedy raises concerns about systematic failures that may have contributed to a situation that should never have occurred and, in our view, could have been prevented.” The family expressed their grief, stating, “We are heartbroken, angry, and searching for answers — but above all, we are mourning Rebecca.”
White’s Background and Legacy
Rebecca White operated Down to Earth Therapy Solutions, where she provided counseling services to individuals in need.
The tragedy has deeply affected the local community and raised awareness about the risks mental health professionals may face in their line of work. White’s family, colleagues, and clients are left grappling with the devastating loss of someone who dedicated her life to helping others.
