Tampa Republic

A suspect who shot at officers was found deceased after barricading himself inside a Tampa apartment complex.

Around 3:30 p.m., a Tampa Police detective was conducting a follow-up investigation at the Meridian Pointe Apartments, located at 2450 E. Hillsborough Ave., meeting with the victim of an unrelated incident involving the adult male suspect who also had an outstanding warrant.

During this investigation, the victim told the detective she saw the suspect at the complex. When the detective encountered the suspect, he fled into the breezeway of a nearby building. The detective chased the suspect and called for backup.

Patrol officers arrived on the scene and were fired upon by the suspect. One officer, a five-year veteran of the department, returned fire.

The suspect then entered an apartment in the building that was occupied by adults and young children.

The Tampa Police SWAT team, which includes hostage negotiators, was activated as officers evacuated the building. The occupants of the apartment were able to exit safely. Negotiators worked for more than an hour attempting to get the suspect to surrender peacefully.

Just before 6:00 p.m., the suspect was found deceased inside a closet in a room of the apartment.

“This was a dangerous situation for our officers and innocent bystanders,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “While we are thankful no one else was hurt, our goal is always for a peaceful resolution. We will work to support all those impacted today.”

The officer has been placed on administrative leave and FDLE will take lead in the investigation, both of which are standard procedure for an officer-involved shooting.

The manner of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner. The suspect involved will be identified pending next-of-kin notification.

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