Mayor Jane Castor, City Of Tampa | City Of Tampa website
Mayor Jane Castor, City Of Tampa | City Of Tampa website
Two Tampa Police officers avoided injury after being shot at by a suspect at an apartment complex. The incident occurred on February 4, 2025, when the officers were investigating an unrelated robbery at Azula North Apartments.
The officers, one with 21 years of service and another with nine years, encountered Matthew Fowler attempting to enter vehicles and apartments. A struggle ensued during which Fowler fired a Glock 9mm handgun with an extended magazine at the officers. Neither officer was hit.
One officer returned fire, but Fowler fled. He was captured shortly after near N. 50th St and Temple Heights, and his gun was found in a dumpster nearby.
Fowler, who has a violent criminal record, is charged with burglary and two counts of attempted murder of law enforcement officers.
"Every officer who wears the badge understands the inherent dangers of this profession," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "These officers demonstrated their dedication by proactively addressing criminal activity... We are incredibly grateful that our officers were not injured."
Fowler will be taken to Orient Road Jail. The involved officers are on administrative leave while the Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigates the shooting.
The names of the officers will be released once their families are informed.
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