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ORLANDO, Fla. - Authorities responded to a residence in Marion Oaks on Wednesday in response to reports that vehicle may have been located which was believed to be tied to a shooting in Palatka on Tuesday night.
Marion Sheriff's SWAT team assisting Palatka Police
What we know:
Late Wednesday afternoon, there was a heavy law enforcement presence, including Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies, the Crisis Negotiations Team, and SWAT Team, is concentrated in the Marion Oaks area.
They were assisting the Palatka Police Department in an ongoing investigation linked to a shooting that took place in Palatka late Tuesday night. Authorities urged residents and drivers to avoid SW 47th Avenue Road and SW 48th Avenue due to possible delays.
Deputies cleared the scene a few hours later.
What we don't know:
Authorities have not released the name of the victim or details regarding his current condition. It is also unclear what led to the shooting, whether the victim was specifically targeted, or if any suspects have been taken into custody. Officials have not disclosed how many people may have been involved in the incident or if there is an ongoing threat to public safety.
The backstory:
Palatka, located roughly 60 miles northeast of Marion Oaks in Putnam County, rarely coordinates with Marion County authorities on active investigations this far south into Marion County.
The investigation stems from an incident at approximately 11:15 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25, when Palatka officers responded to reports of gunfire near St. Johns Avenue and College Road. Upon arrival, officers found a vehicle that had veered off the road. Inside, an adult male with a gunshot wound to the face was alert and conscious in the driver’s seat. The victim was transported to a nearby trauma center for treatment.
After the shooting, detectives and crime scene technicians responded to the area to gather evidence. During their investigation, they identified people of interest and later located a vehicle in Marion County believed to be connected to the case.
The Palatka Police Department is continuing their investigation.
What they're saying:
Authorities have not disclosed additional information, but law enforcement officials are urging the public to report any unusual activity in the vicinity. In an update late Wednesday, the Palatka Police Dept. wrote, "Detectives are processing evidence and talking to the people who are at the location. At this time, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is still underway. "We want to thank the Marion County Sheriff’s Office for all of their help in this investigation."
What you can do:
Anyone who may have information on the shooting contact Lt. Colten Lee or Detective Alisha Burger at 386-329-0115. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers of Northeast Florida at 1-888-277-8477. Information that leads to the arrest of a suspect may pay up to $5,000.00.
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The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Marion County Sheriff's Office.