A Port St. Lucie police officer sustained a facial gunshot wound while attending to a call on Monday evening, according to official reports.
The situation unfolded when six officers reached the location of the call at the 11000 block of SW Lake Park Drive at approximately 6 p.m.
Almost immediately upon their arrival, the officers encountered an adult male armed with an assault rifle outside the residence. An exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in the suspect being fatally shot, stated Police Chief Leo Niemczyk.
Niemczyk revealed that the wounded officer is Sgt. Erik LeVasseur, who has served the department for 27 years. Fortunately, the other officers present at the scene were unharmed, Niemczyk added.
An officer surveys the crime scene on SW Lake Park Drive in Port St. Lucie. (WPTV)
While the details are still emerging, Niemczyk mentioned that the conflict arose from a neighborhood dispute linked to a mental health issue.
A Port St. Lucie, Fla., police cruiser. (X/@PSLPolice)
“It’s the notification that you just dread every day, but it’s always in the back of your mind, as a police chief, as a leader in law enforcement. It’s something that you’re always very aware of, afraid of, concerned for, and then it happens,” Niemczyk said.
Officers on scene in the 11000 block of SW Lake Park Drive in Port St. Lucie, Fla. (WPTV)
Sgt. LeVasseur was taken to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce and remains in surgery.
“We’re very optimistic for his prognosis. And at this time, we’re just asking for prayers,” Niemczyk said.
An investigation is ongoing.
