VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla .– One person was killed and a Daytona Beach police officer was injured in a shootout on Saturday, police said.
The incident occurred in the area of 1629 Avenue Espanola, police said.
Daytona Beach Police Chief Craig Capri told reporters they were called to an apartment complex after anonymously learning that a wanted murder suspect was there.
“The suspect fled to a room in the back,” Capri said.
“The agents follow the suspect, ordering him to freeze, to stop, to surrender. When the officer opened the door, the suspect took a gun and shot our officers. ”
Photo by Clay LePard
Photo by Clay LePard (WKMG)
Police said the officer who was shot would be fine because he was wearing a bulletproof vest during the suspect’s death.
Capri said they were serving an arrest warrant after the man shot a woman in the back twice two weeks ago.
Investigators said another police officer tripped when shots were fired and hit his head, but he should be fine.
“He was on the run,” Capri said. “So he was not a good person. He’s a criminal. “
This man’s family tells a different story.
“My cousin, he’s adorable,” said Victoria Williams.
Police have not identified the suspect while next of kin have yet to be notified, however, family members have informed News 6 in detail about the deceased man.
“He brings us joy every time he comes,” said Williams. “For this to happen to him, it’s sad.”
His family obtained video of the cell phone capturing the encounter and said from what they saw officers went too far with the number of shots they fired at the suspect.
“We are a family that is in mourning because our loved one has been hit repeatedly,” Williams said. “People like to talk about a person’s past. My cousin was never lucky, so his past has nothing to do with what happened today because no one deserved to be killed . I don’t care who you are. ”
As per standard protocol, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement will investigate the shooting and the officers who fired are on paid administrative leave.
Extremely grateful that both officers that were injured during today’s shooting will not only survive but are expected to fully recover. The good Lord covered them with his grace and mercy today. 🙏🏾 🙏🏾🙏🏾
— Deputy Chief Jakari Young (@ChiefJakari)
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