Lake County Deputy Killed, Two Others Injured in ‘Ambush’ in Florida Residence
In a tragic incident unfolding in Eustis, Florida, a Lake County Sheriff’s deputy has been shot and killed. Another two deputies were injured during what has been described as an ‘ambush’ while responding to a disturbance call inside a home on Friday evening.
Lake County Sheriff’s Deputy Ambushed
“They were ambushed,” were the poignant words of Lake County Sheriff Peyton C. Grinnell during an impromptu press conference regarding the incident. “We lost one tonight,” Grinnell continued, sharing the sad news of the passing of a deputy who had been fatally injured during the response.
Sadly, two other deputies were also wounded during the brutal encounter. Both were attempting to come to the aid of their colleague trapped within the residence when they were shot. They were hurriedly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The severity of their injuries and their current status has not been shared at this time.
‘Disturbance’ Call Ends in Tragedy
The deputies had initially responded to a disturbance call in Eustis, a city in Lake County, Florida. On arrival, they found the back door of the residence had been kicked in. From within they could hear further disturbances, prompting them to enter.
Upon entering the home, a hailstorm of gunfire greeted the deputies in a shocking ambush. The first deputy was tragically hit and became trapped within the premises, leading to the deadly rescue mission that cost another deputy his life and injured two others.
Two other individuals found dead, Third injured
Two individuals who were inside the house at the time of the incident were also found dead. A third was taken to the hospital, but their condition remains unknown. The circumstances surrounding their deaths have not been confirmed; whether they were part of a murder-suicide or victims of return fire from the ambushed deputies is yet to be determined.
Community and Law enforcement response and support
The incident prompted an outpour of support from surrounding law enforcement agencies, including Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), FBI, and ATF. Their combined efforts are in place to ensure a thorough investigation of this tragedy, bringing justice to those who were so cruelly taken and injured.
“Many agencies have come together for this,” said Sheriff Grinnell, appreciating the immediate support and assistance offered by fellow law enforcement agencies.
Last Words
While this somber news comes as a shock to the local community, Sheriff Grinnell remained committed to transparency: “But the community outpour has been great.” He urged for patience and support as the investigation continues to unfold. For now, the local law enforcement agencies and the community of Eustis are left to mourn their loss and rally for the remaining deputies’ recovery.
