Flagler deputy strikes man with vehicle after suspect pulls gun, officials say

FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. - One man is behind bars after deputies with the Flagler County Sheriff's Office said he pulled a gun on an officer during a patrol.

Officials said a deputy was conducting a patrol on January 4 in the W-Section area of Palm Coast when he saw 38-year-old Michael McDermott on a sidewalk standing next to a bicycle. After making contact with McDermott, deputies said he attempted to ride away. 

McDermott appeared to comply with orders to stop before riding off again, according to deputies. As the deputy attempted to catch up to the suspect again, he observed McDermott pulling a gun from his pants, according to a release. 

The deputy then struck McDermott with his vehicle, causing him to drop the weapon, according to officials. 

McDermott faces charges of assault or battery on a law enforcement officer, fleeing and eluding, resisting an officer with violence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.