By Staff

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In a dramatic incident this morning, Gainesville Police Department officers fatally shot a suspect who allegedly opened fire on them. Two officers sustained injuries that are not considered life-threatening. Additionally, another individual was found dead at a nearby business location.

The situation unfolded around 7:56 a.m. on January 14, when police responded to reports of gunfire on East University Avenue. A department spokesperson explained that an officer attempted to stop a vehicle believed to be linked to the shooting. Upon exiting the vehicle, the suspect, armed with a pistol, charged the officer and fired. The officer then returned fire in defense.

As the confrontation escalated, two additional officers arrived at the scene. The suspect allegedly redirected his gunfire towards them, prompting the officers to respond with their own shots. One of these shots struck the suspect, who attempted to flee but ultimately collapsed. He was taken to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The two officers injured in this exchange are expected to recover, as their wounds are not life-threatening.

After the incident, an individual with a fatal gunshot wound was discovered at Imeca Lumber and Hardware (1201 E. University Avenue).

This is a developing investigation, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement is on scene to investigate the officers’ actions.