Suwannee County, FL – Law enforcement agencies across north Florida are on a high alert as an extensive manhunt continues for a perpetrator who shot and killed two individuals and wounded a deputy in a violent spree that started with an armed robbery. The crisis began Thursday night at a gas station in Gadsden County and escalated into a multi-county car chase ending in a collision in Suwannee County.
Authorities identified the man involved in the violent outbreak after recovering his vehicle early Friday in neighboring Columbia County. The search operation has since expanded, drawing in various law enforcement bodies including the Florida Highway Patrol and local police departments from Lake City and Live Oak, along with sheriff’s deputies from Jacksonville, Columbia, Gadsden, and Suwannee counties.
The incident unfolded when the gunman, after committing an armed robbery at the gas station, fled in his vehicle, leading police on a high-speed pursuit. The chase concluded with a crash on US 90 West near a local sales lot. Officials reported that upon exiting his damaged vehicle, the assailant opened fire, injuring a Suwannee County deputy.
Thankfully, the deputy’s protective body armor absorbed most of the gunfire, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries. The deputy was quickly attended to, and has been reported to be in stable condition following the attack.
The violent confrontation has spilled over into the surrounding community, causing considerable anxiety among residents. Authorities in Suwannee County have advised locals in affected areas along US 90 West to remain indoors and report any suspicious activity. Safety measures and roadblocks are expected to continue as the search for the suspect intensifies.
Columbia County Sheriff’s Sergeant Steven Khachigan, in a statement to the press, emphasized the danger posed by the suspect, describing him as “very dangerous” and “desperate”. The community has been asked to cooperate fully with the ongoing law enforcement efforts to locate and apprehend the individual responsible.
Further details about the fatalities and the circumstances of the armed robbery that precipitated this violent sequence of events have not been fully disclosed as investigations are ongoing. This incident has raised concerns about safety and security in the region, leading to calls for heightened vigilance and community support to aid law enforcement efforts.
Public security officials continue to piece together the assailant’s movements and motives. As the manhunt proceeds, officials are urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in the swift capture of the suspect to prevent any further harm to the community.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and dangers law enforcement officers face daily. It also underscores the importance of community collaboration in tackling crime and ensuring public safety.