A gunman was fatally shot after opening fire on Florida police during an active shooter and barricade situation at an apartment complex Wednesday.
At around 8:30 a.m., Melbourne police responded to a report of a suspicious person at a three-story apartment complex, WOFL-TV reports. When officers reached the complex, a gunman opened fire.
"They didn't have the opportunity to knock on the door. So, again, we're very fortunate," said Chief David Gillespie.
No officers were struck by shots, and they did not return fire as they retreated. A standoff ensued as a perimeter was set up and a SWAT unit and other law enforcement agencies were called in.
During the standoff, the suspect exited the complex and began firing again. This time, police returned fire, and the gunman was fatally struck in the exchange.
Police did not release the name of the gunman. It's not clear what led the suspect to begin shooting at officers.
The shooting is under investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
