Gunman at Apartment Complex Opens Fire on Fla. Police Officers

June 26, 2024
When Melbourne police investigated a report of a suspicious person at an apartment complex, a gunman began shooting at officers, leading to a fatal standoff.

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.

About the Author

Joe Vince

Joining Endeavor Business Media in 2018, Joe has worked on the company's city services publications. He began working at OFFICER.com as the assistant editor. Before starting at Endeavor, Joe had worked for a variety of print and online news outlets, including the Indianapolis Star, the South Bend Tribune, Reddit and Patch.com.

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