NEWS RELEASE 22-042 - AUGUST 18, 2022
The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating an officer-involved shooting.
Deputies were called to 310 Richardson Way in Sarasota on Thursday at 9:29 a.m. for the report of an armed burglary. According to the homeowner, the suspect entered his efficiency apartment while the homeowner was sleeping. The homeowner reportedly awoke to find the suspect using a baseball bat to sharpen a large machete. The homeowner immediately dialed 911 and fled the home.
When deputies arrived, they located the suspect inside the efficiency apartment, yielding the machete. The suspect advanced toward deputies, striking one deputy in the hand, causing severe injuries. Two of the other responding deputies fired their weapons, striking the suspect. Deputies immediately rendered aid along with responding paramedics; however, the suspect died at the scene. At this time, detectives are still working to confirm the suspect’s identity and notify his next of kin.
As is standard in officer-involved shootings, all responding deputies will be interviewed. The agency’s Officer-Involved Shooting Investigations Team will conduct the investigation which will later be reviewed by the State Attorney’s Office.
The deputy who was injured is currently awaiting surgery. Thank you to community members who have offered their support and well wishes.
Additional details will be released once they become available.