Staff Writer

Kissimmee Commissioner Carlos Irizarry was arrested in Orange County Thursday morning for aggravated assault with a handgun against his wife, after he got into an argument with her at a private school parking lot.

The couple was at the Living Word Academy for a graduation for youngsters, attended by a large audience of parents, according to Orange County Sheriff's Office reports. Irizarry got out the handgun while arguing with his wife, who was in a vehicle, witnesses told deputies.

Deputies responded to the academy, which is at 653 W. Wetherbee Road in south Orange County, at around 10:55 a.m. after Irizarry's actions scared other parents, who saw the gun and called 911. By the time deputies arrived, Irizarry had relinquished the gun. He was taken into custody without incident. Irizarry's wife had left the scene.

The commissioner was transported to a local hospital after he complained of discomfort but was due to be booked into the Orange County Jail once cleared. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The city of Kissimmee was notified of Irizarry's arrest at around 2 p.m., city spokeswoman Carla Banks said. Given his felony charge, the governor could suspend Irizarry from office until he is cleared. If suspended, a replacement would be appointed.

Irizarry was elected to the City Commission in November 2006, the first Hispanic to attain that office. His four-year term will end in November and he was running for re-election. Challengers in the seat 2 race are Wanda Rentas and John Cortes.