OCSO Sheriff says deputies justified in actions following Pine Hills shooting involving deputies

Sheriff says deputies justified in Pine Hills shooting

Orange County Sheriff John Mina said his deputies were justified in their actions following a deputy-involved shooting on Wednesday. According to Mina, the incident stemmed from two drive-by shootings hours earlier. Both happened outside a home on San Jose Boulevard.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. - Orange County Sheriff John Mina said his deputies were justified in their actions following a deputy-involved shooting on Wednesday.

Gunshots rang out around 1 p.m.

"I heard around three to four shots fired," said Vincent Grant.

Grant said after things had settled down, he went to investigate.

"I saw a gentleman laid down in the bottom of the pickup, and I saw like he had a gunshot wound," Grant said. "So, they put him in the ambulance and take him away."

According to Mina, the incident stemmed from two drive-by shootings hours earlier. Both happened outside a home on San Jose Boulevard.

A woman who lives at the home said her cameras helped deputies quickly identify and track down the suspect. He was less than 3 miles away, outside a house on Montague Place.

When his deputies arrived, Mina said there was a group of people standing around, including the 16-year-old suspect who was holding a gun.

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"Our deputies gave several commands, and then they shot at the suspect," Mina said. "Another subject was struck in the foot, and he has a non-life-threatening injury. He was transported to the hospital. As far as I know, he’s going to be okay. He’s 24-years-old."

Mina said he reviewed officer-worn body cam footage.

"I did see one subject, from the body-worn camera footage, clearly holding a firearm… he knew we were law enforcement. Our deputies were in full uniform, so you know, you’ve got to follow the commands of law enforcement, and you shouldn’t be doing drive-by shootings," Mina said. "If you follow the commands of law enforcement, and surrender peacefully, you won’t get shot."

The names of those involved or their charges have not yet been released. Mina also said they’re still working to determine a motive.

"We do anticipate numerous charges, on several individuals, both related to the drive-by shootings and to this incident on Montague Place," Mina said.

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