Double Shooting Leaves Two Orlando Police Officers Critically Wounded
ORLANDO, Fla. – Two Orlando police officers were shot and critically wounded late Friday during a traffic stop connected to a Florida homicide investigation, sparking a massive search for the two culprits. The incident occurred around 11 p.m. near Washington Street and Garland Avenue.
The names and conditions of the officers, who were rushed to Orlando Regional Medical Center, have not been released. According to police, the officers were investigating a vehicle wanted in connection to a homicide in Miami when one person opened fire, striking the officers.
In the chaos that ensued, one of the assailants carjacked a driver, leading to a vehicle pursuit. Orlando Police Chief Eric D. Smith expressed his sadness over the incident, stating, “This is a sad day for our police department. I want to thank all the law enforcement agencies who are assisting us. We will find these suspects and bring them to justice.”
Details about the culprits or the vehicle they stole have not been released. However, a large number of law enforcement officers were seen early Saturday at the Marden Ridge Apartments in Apopka, more than 15 miles from the shooting scene. A vehicle was towed away from the apartment complex, but it is unclear if it is related to the officer-involved shooting.
Law enforcement agencies from Lake County, Osceola County, Orange County, Seminole County, Apopka, Daytona Beach, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are assisting in the investigation.
Former Orlando Police Chief Orlando Rolon emphasized the collaborative effort, stating, “You have seen a lot of agencies assisting in the process. They’re following every possible lead to apprehend these individuals. But at the same time, the officers are having to tend to the needs of those who are injured and their family members.”
Garland Avenue was shut down after the shooting, and residents were urged to avoid the area. News 6 reporter Treasure Roberts reported from the Orlando Regional Medical Center, which was blocked off by police cars. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office expressed their support for the injured officers, stating, “We are pulling for the injured officers and standing shoulder to shoulder with our OPD partners tonight, doing everything we can to bring these suspects to justice.”
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
What is the current status and condition of the critically injured officers involved in the shooting near Washington Street and Garland Avenue
Orlando, Florida, two police officers were critically injured on Friday night during a traffic stop related to an ongoing homicide investigation in Florida. The shooting took place near Washington Street and Garland Avenue at approximately 11 p.m. The officers’ identities and current conditions have not been disclosed. As per the police, the officers were conducting an investigation on a vehicle linked to a Miami homicide when an individual opened fire and shot the officers.
Praying for the quick recovery of these brave officers. Mindless acts of violence like these are absolutely heartbreaking.