Intense Manhunt in Manatee County: Burglary Suspect Opens Fire on Deputies, Escapes into Woods

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BRADENTON, Fla. (WFLA) — A dramatic search ensued in Bradenton early Monday after a suspected thief shot at deputies before fleeing into a wooded area, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The situation began late Sunday night, around 11:40 p.m., when deputies were alerted to a potential break-in at a tire shop on 52nd Place East.

A 25-year-old Avon Park resident, Dayton Harris, was identified as the suspect. He was reportedly dressed in dark attire and wearing a ski mask. Upon the deputies’ arrival, Harris fled, firing shots in their direction, as reported by the sheriff’s office.

Dayton Harris (Credit: Manatee County Sheriff’s Office)

Deputies lost track of Harris as he dashed southward across State Road 70, disappearing into a wooded area situated behind a shopping complex. In response, a perimeter was set up, and K-9 along with aviation units were deployed to aid in the search, officials stated.

During the early hours of the search, deputies discovered a firearm, ski mask, and additional evidence. At approximately 4:30 a.m., a passerby reported seeing someone who matched Harris’s description entering an abandoned trailer at the Westwind Mobile Home Park.

Harris was arrested at the abandoned trailer with the help of a K-9 team, the sheriff’s office said. He has been charged with armed burglary, aggravated assault on law enforcement, resisting arrest and criminal mischief.

No one was injured during the shooting or subsequent manhunt, officials said.