CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. – A multi-county vehicle pursuit ended in a deputy-involved shooting in Marion County, according to investigators.
On Friday evening, Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies attempted a traffic stop in the area of Hernando on a Mitsubishi SUV where the driver was suspected of having a felony warrant.
The driver failed to stop, and a vehicle pursuit ensued. Deputies attempted to end the pursuit by utilizing a tire deflation device but were unsuccessful.
Deputies engaged another tire deflation device and successfully slowed the vehicle – however, the driver continued into Marion County along Highway 200.
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At this time, Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies joined in the pursuit and used the Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT), successfully stopping the feeling vehicle, which crashed into a power pole.
The suspect then exited the vehicle with a rifle in hand, posing an immediate threat to the deputies and nearby citizens. CCSO deputies drew their firearms and fired at the suspect, stopping the threat. The suspect was transported to a medical facility for treatment.
There is no threat to the public or surrounding communities, but we ask that you avoid the area at this time.
“The suspect in this incident posed a significant threat to two communities today through his reckless actions. At the end of the day, the deputies on scene had only seconds to decide how to respond to protect every citizen in the area before the suspect decided to further endanger the lives of both law enforcement officers and civilians present,” said Colonel Elena Vitt. “This is yet another example of why having a great working relationship with all of our law enforcement partners is imperative. We joined forces and seamlessly protected those we swore an oath to serve.”
As per CCSO policy, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) will be investigating the officer-involved shooting along with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. More information will be provided when it becomes available.
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