By Staff Reporter
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A shooting suspect was fatally shot by Gainesville Police Department officers early this morning after allegedly opening fire on them. The incident left two officers with non-life-threatening injuries. Additionally, a deceased individual was discovered at a nearby business.
The incident unfolded around 7:56 a.m. on January 14, when officers responded to reports of gunfire on East University Avenue. According to a spokesperson from the Gainesville Police Department, an officer attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle that matched the description of the suspect’s car. The suspect reportedly exited the vehicle with a firearm, charged at the officer, and began shooting. The officer, in turn, fired back.
As backup arrived, the suspect turned his weapon on two additional officers, prompting them to return fire. One of the officers struck the suspect, who attempted to flee but collapsed. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The two officers injured in the exchange of gunfire are expected to recover, as their injuries are described as non-life-threatening.
Following the shootout, authorities discovered a deceased victim at Imeca Lumber and Hardware located at 1201 E. University Avenue, adding further complexity to the morning’s events.
This is a developing investigation, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement is on scene to investigate the officers’ actions.
