The unsettling episode unfolded when Gainesville Police Chief Nelson Moya recounted that a 911 call came through around 7:56 a.m. from someone reporting gunfire near East University Avenue. Speaking with First Coast News, Moya shared that an officer was already patrolling the vicinity and quickly attempted to intercept the suspect’s vehicle based on the description provided.

The vehicle came to a stop at the intersection of East University Avenue and SE Hawthorne Road. In a shocking and aggressive move, the suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, exited the vehicle and launched an “ambush-style attack” on the officer, opening fire without hesitation.

Reacting swiftly, the officer engaged in a defensive maneuver, returning fire while retreating to a safer position. Two more officers promptly arrived at the scene to provide backup in this dangerous confrontation.

According to Moya, the officer returned fire while retreating, as two additional officers were then called to the scene.

When they arrived, police said the suspect started shooting at them.

Two officers were shot during the exchange of gunfire, the police department said, including the officer who pulled over the suspect. According to Moya, both officers were taken to Shands Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and are expected to make a full recovery. Moya said the suspect was killed during the shootout.

Moya further explained that the investigation took officers to a nearby lumber yard, where a person was found shot to death and the suspect was seen going onto the property moments before the shooting.

Moya said the suspect parked behind a KFC located in the 1300 block of East University Avenue, met with the person found dead at the lumber yard, and returned to his car when he attempted to flee the scene, leading to the shooting.

Police said East University Avenue will remain closed for several hours due to the active investigation.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office released the following statement on the shooting:

“Our hearts are with our friends at the Gainesville Police Department after two officers were shot while responding to a shots-fired call. The suspect has been killed.

We are grateful to hear that both officers are recovering.

This incident underscores the dangers law enforcement officers face every day. We thank all those who put their lives on the line to protect our communities.

Sheriff Waters and the entire Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office stand in solidarity with the Gainesville Police Department and everyone affected.”