TAMPA, FLORIDA — A violent incident unfolded in Tampa early Saturday, involving a man who authorities say went on a crime spree across multiple counties. This series of events initiated with a domestic violence situation in Hernando County, later extending to Pasco County.
A woman involved in the domestic dispute contacted Pasco Sheriff’s Office at 2:14 a.m., reporting her arrival at her parents’ residence in Wesley Chapel. Moments later, the dispatcher heard screams and gunshots. By the time deputies responded, the woman had been shot, although her injuries were deemed non-life-threatening. The assailant, identified as the father of her child, opened fire on the deputies, sparking a high-stakes chase.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister likened the situation to an action movie, emphasizing the real-life danger multiple communities faced because of this individual.
During the chase, the assailant shot at police officers before crashing his vehicle near Hidden River Parkway and East Fletcher Avenue. He fled on foot and exchanged gunfire with law enforcement officers. This encounter involved personnel from the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol, and Tampa Police Department.
Four minutes into the gunfight, the assailant sought refuge behind a business complex. When officers approached, they discovered him injured. He was rushed to Tampa General Hospital.
The 37-year-old assailant, with a record of 18 prior convictions, died from his injuries. Sheriff Chronister expressed his relief that no officers were harmed, while Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco warned against targeting law enforcement.
“If you shoot at one of us, we’re going to fire back,” Nocco said.
In light of the incident, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) will oversee the investigation. As is routine, the involved Hillsborough deputy has been put on paid leave during the investigation.
