Tampa Police officers were shot at while responding to and investigating a shooting.
This week, Tampa Police dispatch received a call regarding a shooting inside a residence located in the 10000 block of 23rd Street.
When officers arrived, two female victims exited the residence seeking assistance after being shot. Shortly after, the suspect, 42-year-old Michael Banks, shot at officers, forcing them to return fire.
32-year-old Tampa Police Officer Darren Gibson fired shots, none of which struck Banks. A short time later, Banks was taken into custody.
Once inside the residence, officers located another adult female victim who was pronounced deceased on scene.
The Central Florida investigation is still active, but it is believed that the suspect and victims are known to each other.
“Our thoughts are with the family of the woman who is deceased and those injured in today’s tragedy,” said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. “In every case, our officers run towards the danger, and fortunately today none of the brave officers were injured. It’s calls like these that are stark reminders of the dangers affiliated with this profession.”
The identity of the homicide victim was still pending Next of Kin notification.
