One of two armed suspects involved in a carjacking was shot and killed by an Orange County Sheriff’s deputy on Monday, near Lakeville and Hiawassee Road.
Investigators say, around 1:30 a.m., a woman was confronted on Overland and Beggs Road where she was car jacked of her 2011 Toyota Camry at gun point and pistol whipped by two black males. Both suspect carried large caliber firearms.
The victim was able to obtain assistance and was taken to the Steak and Shake at 1680 South Orange Blossom Trail where deputies were called to investigate.
About one hour later around 3:30 a.m., deputies spotted the stolen Camry with the two suspects traveling in the area of Lakeville and Hiawassee Road and requested back-up as they followed the vehicle. Once back-up arrived, deputies initiated their emergency equipment and attempted to initiate a felony stop, but the suspects continued to flee.
Deputies again attempted to stop the suspects on Hiawassee Road and Gadwall, but again the armed carjacking suspects refused to comply and instead, began repeatedly ramming the police cars for a second time. Deputies opened fire at the suspects to end the threat around 3:40 a.m.
Investigators say, the driver of the carjacked vehicle succumbed to his injuries and died on the scene. The passenger was removed from the car, arrested and transported to a local area hospital with minor injuries.
No deputies were injured in the shooting, but several vehicles were damaged.
The name of the deceased has not been released, pending notification of next of kin.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has launched an investigation into the deputy-involved shooting.
The three deputies involved in the shooting incident are being temporarily being reassigned to administrative duties for at least one week, a statement from the Sheriff’s Office said.
The investigation is ongoing.
