Ormond-by-the-Sea, FL — A man from Connecticut was fatally shot by a Volusia County Sheriff’s sniper on Thursday following hours of gunfire involving over 200 shots fired at a Florida condominium complex and at law enforcement officials. The extensive shooting incident, which took place at the Kingston Shores condominiums, began early in the morning and ended with no other reported injuries, according to the sheriff’s office.
The man, identified as 56-year-old Joseph DiFusco, had been renting a unit through Airbnb and was described as a seasonal resident. Authorities believe DiFusco brought multiple firearms from another state into Florida. The conflict started shortly after DiFusco contacted law enforcement himself, reporting suicidal thoughts but refusing further medical help.
Shortly after 6 a.m., following an initial welfare check, deputies returned to the scene as DiFusco began firing into neighboring apartments and at officers arriving at the location. Sheriff Mike Chitwood described the scene as perilous, with bullets flying over the heads of deputies who were stationed approximately 100 yards away from DiFusco’s location.
“The situation escalated rapidly. Attempts to negotiate were met with more gunfire, and he had even turned off his phone, cutting off any line of communication,” Chitwood recounted.
In the course of the morning, additional officers and a SWAT team were deployed as DiFusco barricaded himself within his rented apartment. Armed with at least three guns, his aggressive defense included a relentless discharge of ammunition that left exterior walls of the complex pockmarked with bullet holes. Images later released by authorities captured the severity of the shootout, highlighting the danger posed to neighbors and responders.
Neighbors were evacuated to safety amid the chaos. Prior to the incident, DiFusco’s family had expressed concerns about his well-being, noting a cessation of medication and several sleepless nights which may have contributed to his erratic behavior. Their fears had escalated to the point that they were reportedly sleeping in their car out of concern for their safety.
The standoff concluded after a sniper from the sheriff’s office was able to neutralize DiFusco, effectively ending more than five hours of gunfire. This operation was part of a larger effort to contain the situation while minimizing risk to other residents and law enforcement personnel.
Reflecting on the incident, Sheriff Chitwood highlighted the complexity and danger of dealing with armed individuals experiencing mental health crises. The sheriff emphasized the need for effective measures to prevent the importation of firearms by individuals who may pose a risk to community safety.
The event underscores ongoing discussions around Airbnb’s responsibilities in verifying the background of renters and the challenges local authorities face in managing incidents involving transient residents. This incident also contributes to a broader conversation on mental health and the necessity for accessible care and resources to support individuals in crisis, potentially averting future tragedies.