One dead in Plant City officer-involved shooting

PLANT CITY, Fla. - A call related to a suicidal man turned into an officer-involved shooting in Plant City Tuesday morning. It happened outside the Cynthia Grove Apartment complex off Risk Street.

“After several moments, the subject, he advised he was holding a gun,” said Sgt. Al Van Duyne, with the Plant City Police Department.

Moments later, police say the subject refused orders to drop the gun and turned the firearm on himself.

“As the subject was raising the gun to his chest, the officer was fearful that he may shoot another officer in the vicinity, so the officer drew his service weapon and fired two shots at the subject,” Sgt. Van Duyne said.

It’s unclear if the officer’s rounds hit the man, but the subject was shot and died on the scene.  

“There are so many individuals that struggle this time of year with depression anxiety,” said Clara Reynolds, President and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

This is why the Crisis Center tends to see a sharp rise in calls for help around sensitive times like holidays. 

“What we can do is give you an opportunity to tell your story in your words and know there’s somebody on the other line that’s going to listen to you and believe you and give you the opportunity to be heard,” she said.

The Crisis Center is available 24/7 by dialing 211.

“Please know you’re not alone, the world is not going to be a better place without you, and we really want you to be here and reach out for help if you need,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Plant City officer who fired those two shots is on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation, which is routine in cases like this. The deceased man’s name has not yet been released.

If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Or text to 741-741

CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. Call 1-800-273-TALK for free and confidential emotional support.