Investigation Underway After Meth Possession Arrest Escalates into Gunfire
A routine traffic stop in Florida escalated into a violent confrontation early Monday morning when a suspect, already under arrest, allegedly fired a concealed weapon at a Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputy.
Both the deputy and the suspect sustained injuries but have since been released from the hospital.
The incident began in Summerfield on SE 161st Street when deputies pulled over Rheanna Harden, 22. During the stop, Harden was arrested on multiple charges, including driving with a suspended license, providing false identification to law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
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According to preliminary reports, while Harden was being transported to jail, she allegedly produced a small-caliber handgun that had been concealed in the crotch area of her pants. She then reportedly fired at the deputy, causing injury. The deputy, whose name has not yet been released, returned fire, striking Harden.
Both were immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries. Authorities confirmed that both the deputy and the suspect have since been released. The deputy’s injuries are described as non-life-threatening.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has been notified and is actively investigating the shooting. This is standard procedure for all deputy-involved shootings in Florida.
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