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An armed 19-year-old has prompted a significant police response, leading authorities to issue a shelter-in-place order to protect residents near Lake City.
COLUMBIA COUNTY, Fla. — A manhunt is underway for an individual carrying a firearm, resulting in a substantial police presence around Southwest Journey Court and CR-242.
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office announced via social media that a shelter-in-place directive was implemented shortly after 5 p.m.
“The individual is a 19-year-old Black male dressed in shorts and a dark shirt,” deputies reported. “He is armed with a handgun featuring an extended magazine.”
Speaking with First Coast News, deputies confirmed that the search is actively ongoing. They are collaborating with Columbia County Emergency Services to expand the shelter-in-place alert across the area, if feasible.
“Residents in the immediate vicinity have been informed by law enforcement,” a deputy explained to First Coast News. “We will update the public as soon as the shelter-in-place is lifted, following the suspect’s capture.”
Authorities say that if you see the man, you should not engage with him and instead call 911.
This is a developing story. Information will be added as soon as it is available.
