Residents of this typically peaceful area are grappling with the aftermath of the confrontation, which took place on Bradd Avenue. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the standoff, which began around 10 p.m. on Monday, ended with police shooting a suspect who was involved in a domestic disturbance.

“We’ve never had any problems here, so it felt safe,” expressed a neighbor who chose to remain anonymous and avoid appearing on camera.

The standoff was initiated when the police responded to a domestic violence report involving 31-year-old Corey Sweeney. According to investigators, Sweeney allegedly threatened his mother with a knife, holding it perilously close to her face while making slashing motions. Fortunately, she managed to flee the residence, but Sweeney reportedly barred her from re-entering, escalating the situation and prompting a prolonged police response.

As law enforcement attempted to peacefully resolve the crisis, local residents found themselves unprepared for the sudden influx of police activity in their usually serene community.

“We were watching TV,” she recalled, “and we saw lights. When we came outside and realized what was happening. Not too long after that, we were evacuated and sat in a police car.”

That neighbor said she, her husband, and their children were evacuated around 11:30 p.m. They spent hours sitting in a police car while law enforcement worked nearby.

JSO said Sweeney did not comply with commands. Investigators said he broke a window from inside the house, cutting an officer, prompting police to call in the SWAT team.

During the standoff, authorities said Sweeney exited the home at least once wearing a football helmet and swinging a hammer, then retreated inside. When he came out again, holding an object and threatening to throw it at officers, two officers shot him in the leg.

The neighbors said she heard the gunfire.

“Just quick, loud snapping, probably two or three times.”

No neighbors were injured, but the emotional impact lingered long after police cleared the scene.

The neighbor said she was aware Sweeney had a history of mental health issues. JSO said he had a long criminal history, and he had previously been Baker Acted, a legal process that allows law enforcement to temporarily detain someone for a mental health evaluation.

“It’s just sad overall for everybody,” she said. 

JSO said Sweeney is facing multiple charges related to the incident. The investigation into the officer-involved shooting remains ongoing.

According to the sheriff’s office, this is the 16th officer-involved shooting in Jacksonville this year.