[Orlando, FL] – On April 20, at approximately 1:30 a.m., OPD Crime Center detectives were monitoring the area of Orange Avenue and Central Boulevard. Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith said detectives observed a physical altercation occur outside Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery, on South Orange Avenue. During the fight, detectives said a handgun fell from the suspect’s pants. According to the report, the suspect picked up the weapon and put it back in his pants. OPD Crime Center immediately alerted nearby officers to respond. As officers were responding, the suspect pulled out the handgun and fired a single round into the air. Responding officers gave multiple commands for the suspect to drop the weapon.

According to OPD, the suspect refused the commands. In response, officers fired their firearms striking the individual. The suspect was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), where he was later pronounced deceased. The officers involved were not injured and will be on paid administrative leave.

As with all officer involved shootings, FDLE will conduct an independent review of the incident, that will be turned over to the State Attorney’s office. Additionally, the Orlando Police Department will conduct its own internal investigation. The officers did have their body worn cameras on during the incident.

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